When it comes to home repairs, additions, or new building structures, it is always best to check with the city to see if you need a permit.

Pertti Harkonen, team lead with the City of Airdrie Building Inspections Department, said there are many things people may not realize need a permit.

"The little things for the summer. We have people who like to throw in a BBQ; well if they hook up gas for a BBQ, they require a permit because that would be an accessory permit. Hot tubs and air conditioners; if you're having your furnace replaced or a hot water tank replaced there are permits required by the gas inspections."

Harkonen said any component that is functional that serves a purpose and could pose a risk to your safety would require a permit.

The other issue Harkonen warned about is purchasing a new home. If a basement is finished, or there is a deck over 24 inches, it is always best to ensure there is a building permit by speaking with the realtor.

"You can actually phone the City of Airdrie building inspections department and ask were there any permits taken out on that house for, it could be a hot tub, it could be an air conditioner, it could be a basement development, it could be the sheds, the garage, anything like that."

In the event that a home is purchased that does not have the appropriate permits, the city still requires that permits are acquired.

Harkonen said that any development or upgrade that is newer than 2000 requires a permit and if the permit is obtained after the build is complete, the fee is doubled.

The last thing Harkonen touched on was making sure to call before you dig. When building a new deck, shed or garage, you run the risk of hitting underground services or utilities if you don't know where the lines are.

"We want to make sure that you are safe, we want to make sure that the occupant of the home has a safe environment to move into or live in while they're there, and that the risk is minimized to the point where we feel that it is safe for you to live there."