DIY Projects
Do-it-yourself projects and when to hire a professional
Can I install my own basement bathroom rough-in plumbing, or does a licensed plumber need to do that part in Alberta?
In Alberta, you cannot legally install basement bathroom rough-in plumbing yourself — this work must be performed by a licensed plumber and requires p...
Can I install a garden door myself in my walkout basement in Airdrie, or does it need an engineer's stamp?
Installing a garden door in your walkout basement typically requires a building permit and structural assessment, but you can do much of the installat...
Can I DIY a basement bathroom rough-in, or does the safety codes council require a licensed plumber for all of it?
In Alberta, you cannot legally DIY the plumbing rough-in for a basement bathroom. All plumbing rough-in work must be performed by a licensed plumber a...
My basement bedroom windows don't meet egress code. Can I fix this without tearing up the whole foundation?
Yes, you can often upgrade basement bedroom windows to meet egress code without major foundation work, but it depends on your current window size and...
Can I build a 6-foot fence on the property line in Rocky View County, or do I need a setback like in Calgary?
Rocky View County allows 6-foot fences directly on the property line between residential properties, unlike Calgary which requires setbacks for fences...
Can I install a wood-burning fireplace in a new build in Nolan Hill or just a gas fireplace?
Both wood-burning and gas fireplaces are permitted in new builds in Nolan Hill, but gas fireplaces are far more practical and commonly chosen due to C...
Can I install a gas range myself in Calgary, or does ATCO Gas require a certified technician?
In Calgary, you cannot legally install a gas range yourself - all gas appliance connections must be done by a certified gas contractor and inspected b...
Can I DIY a gas fire pit on my patio in mahogany, or does it need a gas fitter and permit from the city?
Gas fire pits absolutely require a licensed gas fitter and permits in Alberta — this is not a DIY project. Any gas appliance installation, including f...
Can I build a covered deck without a building permit in Calgary if it is under 108 square feet and less than 2 feet off grade?
No, you cannot build a covered deck without a building permit in Calgary, regardless of size or height. While uncovered decks under 108 square feet (1...
Can I install a tankless water heater myself in Alberta, or does it need a licensed gas fitter?
Installing a tankless water heater in Alberta requires a licensed gas fitter and proper permits - this is absolutely not a DIY project. Under Alberta'...