Deck project questions

Work through permit, repair-scope and contractor questions before a deck project begins. Pages will be based on official sources and checked before publication.

Questions this site will answer

• Does my planned deck need a permit?
• How do height, attachment and access to the house affect permit review?
• Is replacing deck boards treated differently from changing railings or supports?
• What should the deck contractor put in the written estimate?
• What inspections should I confirm before the project is closed out?

How we build these pages

Each answer will name its sources and the date we checked them. This site doesn't rank or recommend any business yet. Read our methodology.