You may be wondering, “Do I need a permit to replace my water heater in Thousand Oaks?”
Currently, Thousand Oaks does require a permit for a water heater replacement. The good news is we can pull the permit for you, and it will not slow down any work on our end.
Every few years, Thousand Oaks water heater and plumbing codes change to adopt new installation and safety measures. While intended to increase your overall home safety, these code requirements can result in extra installation charges.
Some customers scoff at the idea of paying for a permit for a water heater replacement, but the fact of the matter is water heaters can be dangerous if not installed correctly. In fact, water heaters cause more property damage than any other home appliance. And if the unit is not installed to code by a licensed professional and causes damage, your home insurance could reject any claims. That’s why we put a premium on safety and doing everything by the book.
Your expert technician will go over an item-by-item checklist of all applicable safety codes needed for your installation prior to any work being completed, or cost to you.
We try to keep this information as up-to-date as possible, but your local installer will be able to answer any specific question you may have.
Local Water Heater & Plumbing Permits – Thousand Oaks
Water Heater Codes Currently Enforced in Thousand Oaks
Approved Location – To prevent accidents and avoid contact with CO (Carbon Monoxide), emitted in small amounts from gas heater vents, bathrooms and bedrooms cannot be used as water heater storage areas. Closets may be utilized if that is its only purpose. This regulation is currently enforced in Thousand Oaks.
Earthquake Straps – California is in an earthquake zone. Accordingly, hot water heaters are required to have earthquake straps on the top and bottom thirds of the tank in accordance with the CA Plumbing Code. The city of Thousand Oaks enforces this requirement for your safety.
Pans and Drains – The CA Plumbing Code requires a pan to be placed under your water heater if it is located in an interior location or on a built in platform. As potential damage could happen from leakage, a drain line must be attached to the pan and run to the exterior. In most cases the drain to the exterior is required by Thousand Oaks.
Pressure and Temperature Relief Drain (“P&T Drain”) to the Exterior – To avoid accidental scalding while the P&T discharges, the CA Plumbing Code requires the P&T drain be run to the exterior. This requirement is enforced by Thousand Oaks.
Dedicated Water Shutoff – A dedicated water shutoff ensures you will always have water available, even if your hot water heater is being serviced. The water directly to the tank can be turned off, leaving the rest of the house with running water. This is enforced by Thousand Oaks.
Grease Pack Gas Valve Replacement – Grease pack valves were once common on water heaters, but are no longer approved by the CA Plumbing Code due to a high failure rate. We recommend replacing a grease pack valve if we find one while inspecting your hot water heater. Thousand Oaks is currently enforcing this requirement.