Home Repair Costs in Chicago
Permits in Chicago
In Chicago, a permit is required before beginning most construction, demolition and repair work. The Department of Buildings' Express Permit Program handles most types of building repair work and some small improvement projects online.
Chicago Department of Buildings
Chicago does not require a building permit for painting, wallpapering, tiling, carpeting, or installing cabinets or countertops without plumbing or electrical connections; removing and replacing up to 1,000 square feet of drywall or plaster without changing mechanical, electrical or plumbing systems; a fence no more than 5 feet high that conforms to zoning; or a single-story detached shed or similar structure up to 15 feet tall with a footprint of 150 square feet or less and no plumbing. In residential buildings up to 4 stories, in-kind replacement of a furnace, air conditioner, hot water heater, windows or doors in the existing opening, and roof replacement on a roof with a pitch of at least 2:12 are also listed. Work must still meet code, and these exceptions may not apply to landmark properties.
Estimated cost of common jobs
| Job | Low | High |
|---|---|---|
| Water Heater Replacement | $850 | $2,400 |
| Roof Replacement | $7,950 | $26,000 |
| AC Replacement | $3,850 | $9,350 |
| Furnace Replacement | $3,050 | $8,850 |
| Toilet Replacement | $270 | $1,150 |
| Electrical Panel Upgrade | $1,400 | $4,150 |
| Drain Cleaning | $140 | $610 |
| Garage Door Repair | $90 | $680 |
Hourly rates
| Trade | Median wage | Billed low | Billed high |
|---|---|---|---|
| Plumber | $49.70 | $124 | $224 |
| Electrician | $49.21 | $123 | $221 |
| HVAC Technician | $37.48 | $94 | $169 |
| Handyman | $27.90 | $70 | $126 |
| Roofer | $39.47 | $99 | $178 |
| Carpenter | $38.68 | $97 | $174 |
| Painter | $29.68 | $74 | $134 |
General information, not professional advice. Conditions, codes and prices vary. Turn off power, gas or water before any work, and hire a licensed professional when in doubt. Cost figures are our estimates, not quotes.