Condo and townhome kitchen remodel in Milpitas, CA

Getting HOA sign-off

Read the CC&Rs and the architectural guidelines before choosing a layout. Associations commonly ask for drawings, the contractor's license and insurance certificate, and a signed application, and may restrict work hours, parking and elevator use.

Limits set by the building

Drains connect to shared stacks, so the sink can usually move only a short distance. Walls shared with a neighbor and pipes or ducts serving other units generally stay put. Hard flooring may need a sound-rated underlayment.

Terms in HOA paperwork

CC&Rs: the recorded rules for the community. Exclusive-use common area: space you use but the HOA owns. Demising wall: the wall separating two units. Impact insulation class (IIC): a sound rating for floor assemblies.

City permits still apply

An HOA approval letter does not replace a building, plumbing or electrical permit. Both are needed before work starts.

Permits in Milpitas

Milpitas requires a building permit for remodeling and repair work on homes, and the permit has to be issued before work starts, even if the plans are already in review.
Separate plumbing, electrical and mechanical permits cover installing, replacing or relocating sinks, gas lines, wiring and hoods. Finish work such as painting, tiling, cabinets and countertops does not need a building permit.
Kitchen remodel permits are among the permits the Office of Building Safety offers online. A property owner can pull a permit for any work; a licensed contractor pulls it as the owner's agent for work the license covers.

City of Milpitas Office of Building Safety · 455 E. Calaveras Blvd, (408) 586-3240

Common questions

Can my townhome kitchen get an island?

If the room clearances allow it and the HOA does not restrict layout changes. Electrical for island outlets is usually easier than a sink.

Who carries the insurance certificate for the HOA?

The remodeler provides it; many associations want themselves named on it before work begins.