Scottsdale is a stunning Arizona city with all the tranquility and amenities you need to raise a family. But as your family grows, your house may become too small to hold all of you. This is when a remodel becomes necessary. And whether you are remodeling an old house or expanding after buying a home in Scottsdale, the process of changing your home can be daunting, especially if you are unfamiliar with the logistics. Below, we have reviewed some plumbing codes and pointers you should know for a smooth Scottsdale bathroom renovation or remodel.

Plan Ahead

A bathroom remodel is a costly affair with many unknowns and the costs could pile up fast. The best way to stay ahead of the curve and probably save some money is to plan your remodel months before you need to do it. If you are new to the area, and even if you are a veteran homeowner, reach out to Scottsdale real estate agent Karen Stroble to find out what codes and regulations apply to your intended remodel and how to navigate them. This pro-activeness will save you a lot of money and stress.  

Review the CC&Rs in Your Neighborhood

While living in Scottsdale, you and your property are subject to the neighborhood Codes, Covenants, and Regulations (CC&Rs). The CC&R is a civil contract between you and the property owner’s association that determines what changes you can make to your property and how. It is crucial that you learn or revise these codes before you begin your project to avoid violation and the resultant fines.

Keep the new Structure Under 50 Percent of the Current

You can keep your bathroom remodel within your projected budget as long as you do not expend your structure by more than 50 percent of the current structure. Going above this threshold means that the entire bathroom must now be updated to current Building Code standards, which could mean redoing the electrical and plumbing – all expensive activities.

Determine if You Need to Extend a Public Sewer Line

Some bathroom projects may require you to extend or connect to a public water and sewer line. In Scottsdale, these extensions must be locally approved before you can get your go-ahead for a remodel – a process that usually takes four to six months. This is one reason why planning ahead is crucial. Extending a sewer line may also cost you $100 per linear foot, which is another cost you should consider. The first step is to get a contractor to determine if you need an extension at all.

Hire a Contractor

A contractor will help you prepare for and execute the remodel. They will, for one, determine if you need a water/sewer line extension, as mentioned above. According to Scottsdale Revised Code Chapter 49, you may need to extend a public sewer line across all your frontages if your home has multiple street frontages. You may also need one if the Maricopa County Environmental Services Department disallows you from constructing or modifying a septic system on your property and if the available sewer line is over 660 feet from the property corner closest to you. 

Have Any Questions About Scottsdale Property? Consult Real Estate Expert Karen Stroble

Just as you would hire a contractor for a big job, you should never explore the Scottsdale real estate market alone. Whether you want to sell your Scottsdale property, move here, buy a home in a different neighborhood, upgrade to a bigger home, or remodel your current home, esteemed real estate expert Karen Stroble can guide you through the necessary process. Call her office today to inquire.