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Beware of fines when remodeling your home!

In this blog, we are going to explore some of the fines you can receive for remodeling your home in Mexico and how to avoid them.

One of the main fines you could face for remodeling your home in Mexico is for not having the proper permits. Depending on the city or state you are in, you may need a building permit to carry out certain modifications. These permits are issued by the municipality and require a series of documents to be submitted, such as a plan of the property and details of the proposed construction. If you do any remodeling without a proper permit, you could be fined for violating building and zoning codes.
Another fine that you can receive for remodeling your home in Mexico is for failing to comply with zoning regulations. Each area in Mexico has specific regulations regarding the type of construction and the amount of space that is allowed on properties. If you do a remodel that does not comply with these regulations, you could be fined and may even have to reverse the remodel. It is important to review the zoning regulations for the area in which your home is located before beginning any remodeling work.
Additionally, it is important to ensure that any remodeling work is done with the proper materials and in accordance with safety standards. If inappropriate material is used or remodeling is carried out in an unsafe manner, serious fines and penalties could be incurred. If remodeling is being done on a listed or historic property, it is especially important to ensure that the work is done with proper materials and techniques to preserve the integrity of the building.

Another factor to consider when remodeling a home in Mexico is the proper disposal of construction waste. If construction waste is disposed of improperly or deposited in areas not designated for it, you could be fined. It is important to plan for the proper disposal of construction debris before beginning any remodeling work.
The license you need
Now, if you are about to carry out a remodeling in your home that requires applying for a license, you should know that there are two types:

Works smaller than 60m2:
  1. Surfaces on a single level, no greater than 4 meters.
  2. The requirements to apply for this license are the following:
  3. Deeds or proofs of possession.
  4. Property alignment.
  5. Official number.
  6. Current property payment receipt.
  7. Construction plan (must include foundation plan, architectural plan, main façade and location).

Works greater than 60m2:

More than one level, floors and walls greater than 2.5 m in height.
In case of requesting this license, the requirements will be the following:
  1. Deeds or proofs of possession.
  2. Property alignment.
  3. Official number.
  4. Current property payment receipt.
  5. Construction plans (slab assembly plan, roof plan, structural, foundation and electrical details.)
  6. Location sketch.
  7. Signature of the Director Responsible for Works (D.R.O.)
  8. Written request of the D.R.O. for building license.

It should be noted that whatever the license you are going to apply for, you must carry the original documents and three copies of each one.

Spaces that you can remodel without risk of being fined

Not every change you make to your home earns you a fine. In the case of these spaces, it is not necessary to request permits:

  1. Remodel patios (back or on the facade).
  2. Gardens.
  3. facades.
  4. Modify windows.
  5. Modify floors.

To avoid fines and penalties for remodeling your home in Mexico, it is important to follow the proper regulations and standards. This includes obtaining the necessary permits, reviewing zoning regulations, using proper materials and safe construction techniques, and planning for the proper disposal of construction waste. If you have questions about the permits and regulations required to remodel your home in Mexico, it is advisable to seek legal advice to ensure that you are complying with all relevant laws and regulations.

In conclusion, remodeling your home in Mexico can be a great investment, but it is important to know the fines and penalties that you could face if the proper regulations are not followed.

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