Is Your Home Eligible for Simplified Interior Renovation Permits? A Quick Guide

Simplified Interior Renovation: Are You Eligible? Understand the Conditions and Scope at a Glance

The “Simplified Interior Renovation” is a government initiative designed to streamline the application process for small-scale, low-risk renovation projects. However, not all renovations qualify. This guide will help you quickly assess if your project meets the eligibility criteria and will provide a detailed explanation of the relevant regulations.

Quick Eligibility Assessment for Simplified Renovations

Please answer the following questions. The system will evaluate your eligibility for simplified renovations based on your responses:

1. Approximately what is the area of your renovation project? 430 sq ft (approx. 12 tsubo) or less 430-1076 sq ft (approx. 12-30 tsubo) Over 1076 sq ft (approx. 30 tsubo)2. Which of the following items does your renovation project include? (Select all that apply) Lightweight partition wall changes Ceiling renovations Floor installation Surface treatments (painting, wallpaper) Adding bathrooms or kitchens Structural wall changes3. What type of building is it? Single-family home Apartment building Commercial space Other4. What floor is your building on? Floors 1-5 Floors 6-10 Floors 10+ BasementAssess My Eligibility

Assessment Details:

Detailed Explanation of Simplified Renovation Application Requirements

Applicable Building Types

Eligible:

• Single-family homes (detached houses)
• Residential units in apartment buildings
• Small commercial spaces (not for public use)
• Offices, studios

Not Eligible:

• Buildings for public use (malls, cinemas, etc.)
• Hazardous workplaces
• High-rise buildings (over 16 stories or exceeding 50 meters in height)

Area and Scale Limitations

Eligible:

• Renovation area under 1076 sq ft (approx. 100 sqm)
• No increase in the number of rooms
• No change in the number of bathrooms or kitchens
• No alteration of the building’s main structure

Not Eligible:

• Renovation area exceeding 1076 sq ft
• Increasing the number of rooms or bathrooms
• Altering the building’s main structure
• Changing the building’s usage classification

Scope of Work Limitations

Eligible:

• Lightweight partition wall changes
• Ceiling renovations (suspended ceilings, fire-rated ceilings)
• Floor installation (tiles, wood flooring)
• Surface treatments (painting, wallpaper)
• Installation of fixed cabinetry

Not Eligible:

• Alterations to structural walls, beams, or columns
• Adding bathrooms or kitchens
• Changes to fire compartmentation
• Modifications to fire safety equipment

Simplified vs. General Interior Renovation Comparison

• Applicable Area: Simplified: Under 1076 sq ft (100 sqm); General: No limit
• Application Time: Simplified: 7-14 days; General: 14-30 days
• Application Fees: Simplified: Lower; General: Higher
• Review Process: Simplified: Primarily document review; General: Detailed technical review
• Professional Certification: Simplified: Usually not required; General: Requires architect or licensed technician certification
• Applicable Projects: Simplified: Low-risk, small-scale; General: All types of projects

Professional Advice: Consult if Unsure

If you are uncertain whether your renovation project qualifies for simplified interior renovation, it’s advisable to consult your local building management authority or a professional designer for an assessment. Incorrect applications may lead to rejection or penalties. Confirming in advance can save you time and money.

Frequently Asked Questions

❓ Can I apply for simplified renovation for my 30-year-old apartment?

Yes, older apartments can still apply for simplified renovation if they meet the following conditions: 1) The renovation area is under 1076 sq ft; 2) No structural changes are involved; 3) No additional bathrooms or kitchens are added; 4) The building’s usage classification is not changed. However, older buildings require special attention to electrical wiring updates and fire safety. Consulting a professional is recommended.

❓ Do I need a permit if I’m just replacing kitchen and bathroom fixtures?

Simply replacing kitchen and bathroom fixtures without altering their location or increasing their number typically does not require an interior renovation permit. However, if plumbing changes, relocation, or adding more fixtures are involved, a permit might be necessary. It’s best to confirm the specific regulations with your local building authority.

❓ What should I do if my simplified renovation application is rejected?

If your simplified renovation application is rejected, you can: 1) Revise the application based on the rejection reasons and reapply; 2) Apply for a general interior renovation permit; or 3) Adjust the renovation scope to meet the simplified renovation criteria. Consulting a professional can help you understand specific improvement options.

❓ Can I apply for simplified renovation for enclosing a balcony or adding a mezzanine?

No. Enclosing a balcony, adding a mezzanine, or increasing the floor area are considered structural and usage area modifications. These do not qualify for simplified renovation. Such projects require a general interior renovation permit, or even a building permit, and must be certified by an architect.

© 2023 Interior Renovation Guide | Information is for reference only. Actual eligibility is subject to the latest regulations in your specific city or county.