Water damage based repairs in Orlando often need a building permit, which means there are permit fees that must be paid. This is true if your repair involves plumbing, electrical systems, or structural changes. Permits help make sure the work is safe and follows city and state building codes.
When you apply for a permit, the city charges a fee. This fee helps cover the cost of plan reviews, inspections, and safety checks. It’s important to understand these fees so you can budget your project properly.
How Permit Fees Are Calculated
Orlando bases permit fees on the total value of the work being done. The higher the cost of the repair, the higher the fee. For small repairs, the fee is low. For major jobs, the fee can be several hundred dollars.
Other things that affect the cost include:
- The type of work (plumbing, electrical, or structural)
- The number of inspections needed
- Whether you apply online or in person
Typical Fees for Common Water Damage Repairs
Here’s a table with 2025 estimated permit fees for common water damage jobs in Orlando:
| Type of Repair | Estimated Permit Fee |
|---|---|
| Minor drywall patching | $50 – $75 |
| Replacing damaged flooring | $75 – $125 |
| Pipe replacement or plumbing repair | $100 – $200 |
| Water heater replacement | $150 – $225 |
| Electrical rewiring | $150 – $300 |
| Roof repair after water damage | $200 – $400 |
| Structural repairs (walls, framing) | $250 – $500+ |
These are general estimates. The exact fee may be more or less, depending on your specific project.
Additional Fees to Expect
Besides the main permit fee, there may be extra costs. These include:
- Plan review fees
- Technology service fees
- Re-inspection fees if the work fails inspection
- Flood zone review fees (if your home is in a high-risk area)
These fees are usually small, but they can add up. Make sure to ask the city or your contractor about all possible charges before starting work.
Fee Examples by Project Value
The City of Orlando also charges fees based on the full value of the work. Here’s a quick look at estimated 2025 permit costs by project value:
| Project Value | Estimated Permit Fee |
|---|---|
| Up to $2,500 | $65 – $120 |
| $2,501 – $10,000 | $120 – $250 |
| $10,001 – $25,000 | $250 – $500 |
| $25,001 – $50,000 | $500 – $750 |
| $50,001 and above | $750 and up |
Again, these are general estimates. Always check with the City of Orlando for official numbers.
How to Pay for a Permit
You can pay permit fees online or in person. Online payments are made through the City of Orlando’s permit portal. You can pay using a credit card or electronic check. In-person payments can be made by cash, check, or card at the city’s permitting office.
Once the fee is paid, your application will be processed. The city will begin reviewing your plans and get your inspection scheduled.
Ways to Save on Permit Fees
While you can't avoid permit fees completely, there are ways to save money:
- Only apply for the permits you actually need
- Use licensed contractors who submit complete applications (to avoid re-inspection fees)
- Apply online to save time and processing costs
- Group small jobs under one permit, if allowed
These tips can help reduce the total cost of your repair project.
What Happens If You Don’t Pay the Fee?
If you skip the permit or don’t pay the fee, you risk big problems. The city can stop your project. They may also issue fines or penalties. You might have to undo work that was already done.
Also, insurance companies may not cover damage repairs done without a legal permit. And if you try to sell your home, buyers or inspectors might find the unpermitted work.
Are Permit Fees Refundable?
In most cases, permit fees are not refundable once the application has been reviewed or approved. If you cancel early, before any work is done, the city may refund part of the fee. But there is usually a service charge or non-refundable portion.
Ask the permitting office about their refund policy before you cancel any plans.
Final Thoughts
Permit fees for repairing and restoring water damage in Orlando vary based on the type and size of your project. In 2025, most permits for small repairs range from $50 to $200. Bigger jobs cost more, especially if they involve plumbing, wiring, or structural work.
Paying the fee and getting a permit is a smart step. It keeps your home safe, legal, and protected during future sales or insurance claims. Always plan ahead, ask questions, and work with a licensed contractor for the best results.
