Self-Home building: permits needed (plumbing, electricity)?

Question

I want to build a home on my own land, not a "full-sized/normal" home but something about the size of an apartment.
The question comes down to if I'm allowed to wire my own house and/or if it's as efficient (and legal) to buy a natural gas generator and use extension cords behind the walls.

What are the costs involved in and most realistic ways to get water and electricity into a house? How much would the cost of doing such things measure up against the price of building materials (IE wood and cement for the foundation)?

BTW, when I say extension cords, I mean hooked to a minor (say 2000-3000watt) generator not a public IE "grid power supply": I wouldn't dare deal with anything that high-voltage...

Answer 1

I'd compare placing extension cords in the walls for electricity to running garden hoses for water. There are proper materials for the job. Use them or don't waste your time. Do the job right and you will be better off.
If you want to operate the house from a portable generator, wire it up exactly as if you were connected to the grid. Install an electrical panel and run proper wiring to outlets, lighting, appliances, etc. It will be easy to plug the generator into the panel to power the house. If at some time you plan to connect to the grid, the house will already be wired and ready to go.

Answer 2

You will need permits and inspections for the entire project. You will need to have the plans approved by the local government or zoning commission before getting the permits. Your wiring, plumbing, foundation, and just about everything else will have to comply with all building codes. Extension cords in the walls is not going to pass inspection. So far, in most places you are allowed to wire your own home. But it must pass inspection. And be redone if it fails. Most states now require a licensed plumber to do the plumbing work. The government seems to think it's ok to burn your house down with the electricity, but has a problem with flooding it with sewerage. The amateur electricians on this board will be happy to give you step by step instructions on how to wire your house wrong. All you need to do is ask. :)

Answer 3

You need to check with the city/county where you live and get copies fo the building codes & also the construction regulations. Every place is different. However, if you intend to run extension cords behind the walls instead of properly wiring the building, I can pretty much tell you that that is not only illegal, but also fool hardy unless your plan is to have your new structure burn down.

City/county/local utility rules and regulations will also determine how you hook up to water, electricity & sewer lines (and don't forget about the latter. These will largely determine the costs.

It sounds like you're trying to live off the grid? That isn't a bad idea, but realize that doing it right isn't cheap either.

Answer 4

home building permits needed plumbing electricity

Answer 5

I cannot answer your entire question but I know they will not allow extension cords in the walls. Check with your local Code offices to find out what the requirements are. You will need permits and inspections.