Home Repair Costs in Seattle
Permits in Seattle
Most projects in Seattle require a permit. Work on load-bearing supports, changes to the building envelope, and anything that reduces egress, light, ventilation or fire resistance needs a permit regardless of size.
Seattle Department of Construction and Inspections (SDCI)
Minor repairs or alterations costing $6,000 or less in any 6-month period usually need no permit, based on the fair market value of labor and parts even for work you do yourself. Painting or cleaning a building, re-pointing a chimney, installing kitchen cabinets and insulating existing buildings usually need no permit, but these exemptions do not apply in environmentally critical areas.
Estimated cost of common jobs
| Job | Low | High |
|---|---|---|
| Water Heater Replacement | $830 | $2,300 |
| Roof Replacement | $7,100 | $22,500 |
| AC Replacement | $3,900 | $9,400 |
| Furnace Replacement | $3,100 | $8,950 |
| Toilet Replacement | $260 | $1,100 |
| Electrical Panel Upgrade | $1,400 | $4,150 |
| Drain Cleaning | $130 | $570 |
| Garage Door Repair | $90 | $690 |
Hourly rates
| Trade | Median wage | Billed low | Billed high |
|---|---|---|---|
| Plumber | $45.78 | $114 | $206 |
| Electrician | $48.93 | $122 | $220 |
| HVAC Technician | $38.51 | $96 | $173 |
| Handyman | $29.21 | $73 | $131 |
| Roofer | $30.81 | $77 | $139 |
| Carpenter | $36.74 | $92 | $165 |
| Painter | $29.06 | $73 | $131 |
Washington contractor licensing
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.