As an Albuquerque homeowner, you may be thinking about installing a unit or system yourself. Given the cost savings of doing it yourself, we understand why you might want to consider this. However, before deciding to install or repair any type of unit or system related to heating, cooling, or plumbing, keep in mind that the City of Albuquerque has building safety regulations that cover these items and will affect your decision.
Q. How do we get a gas meter installed?
- Because installing a gas meter can be dangerous and the regulations are extremely strict, only a certified contractor licensed to do the installation is allowed to install a gas meter. The contractor will be able to test the system and help you with getting the proper permit and inspection that is required for the install.
Q. Can a new water heater be installed by the homeowner? Is a permit and/or inspection required?
- No, a homeowner cannot install a new water heater, only a certified licensed contractor can install it. And, yes, both a permit and inspection is required. If it’s time for a new water heater, you might consider going tankless.
Q. If my sewer or water supply is not working properly, can I make the repairs? Is a permit required to make repairs?
- No, a permit is not required to make the repairs and the homeowner can make the repairs themselves. However, if the systems will be replaced a permit and inspection will be required.
Q. Can a new furnace and/or air conditioner be installed by the homeowner?
- No, only a contractor that is certified and licensed may install a new furnace and/or air conditioner and it will require a permit and inspection. There are some common furnace problems that you can check, or you can seek the advice of a local full-service heating, cooling, and plumbing company before determining that you need a new unit.
Q. Can I replace fixtures in our bathroom and kitchen without a permit?
- Yes. Homeowners can replace fixtures in their bathrooms or kitchens without a permit as long as there are no new fixtures being placed in new spots. For example, an old fixture being replaced with a new fixture is fine. If you are adding a new fixture where there was never a fixture, that would need a permit.
Q. Our sewer lines need to be cleaned, do we need a permit?
- No, a permit is not required for this.
Q. Can we install the plumbing ourselves on an addition of our home or in a new home?
- Yes. A homeowner’s permit can be given to a homeowner as long as they pass the homeowner’s plumbing test.
Q. Am I allowed to run my own ductwork in my home?
- No, a New Mexico contractor who is licensed in this field can get a permit, install the ductwork into your home and request an inspection.
Q. Do I need a permit to replace the water heater or furnace in my home?
- Yes, only a licensed contractor can get the permit before replacing a furnace or a water heater in New Mexico. The installation must also be inspected. You can contact a local full-service heating, cooling, and plumbing company to determine if your unit needs to be replaced or if it can be repaired.
Q. I have a small commercial project, are HVAC plans required? If so, do these plans require a mechanical engineer stamp?
- Yes. It doesn’t matter if it is a small remodel project or a large new building project, ductwork plans need to be submitted. We also recommend contacting a mechanical chief inspector to discuss the requirements of the design itself since all buildings are a little bit different.
Q. Can I do the plumbing in my own home?
- Absolutely, however, you will need to submit an isometric drawing of your plumbing plans for your home. Your plans require a review. This will cost $25.
Before doing any work on your home always check the City of Albuquerque regulations. Some jobs must be done by certified licensed professionals while others do not. The specifications and regulations are not only for your safety but also for the safety of the surrounding community. As always, it is best to consult a local full-service heating, cooling, and plumbing company before attempting to install or repair a unit or system yourself in the Albuquerque area.
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