If you’re thinking about selling your home in Fort McMurray, one of the most important things you can do to prepare is make sure all necessary permits are in place and properly closed. Whether you’re a homeowner planning future renovations or preparing to list, understanding what requires a permit in the Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo (RMWB) can save you major headaches down the road.
As a full-time REALTOR® in Fort McMurray, I’ve seen deals delayed or worse, fall apart because the right documentation wasn’t in place. Let’s break down why permits matter and how being prepared can help you sell your property smoothly and confidently.
Why Do Permits Matter When Selling a Home in Fort McMurray?
Permits exist to ensure that work on a home meets safety and building code standards. Whether it’s a deck, basement development, electrical work, gas line, hot tub, or detached garage, projects that require permits must be approved by the RMWB and, importantly, signed off once completed.
Buyers are increasingly cautious and educated. If you’ve done work on your home without permits or never had them properly closed, expect questions and possibly hesitation. In today’s market, having the right permits can:
Increase buyer confidence
Help avoid renegotiation or conditions falling through
Streamline the closing process
Position your home as well-maintained and trustworthy
What Requires a Permit in the RMWB?
The Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo requires permits for a wide range of work, including but not limited to:
Finished or partially finished basement developments
Electrical work (including panel upgrades and hot tubs)
Plumbing or gas line changes
Adding or modifying a deck, shed, or garage
Building fences over a certain height
Wood-burning stove installations
Installing or upgrading a secondary suite
Always check with the RMWB Planning & Development department to confirm whether your project needs a permit. It’s also a good idea to request a copy of your current permit history. You might be surprised what’s listed (or missing).
What if You Want to Sell and You Don’t Have Permits?
First, don’t panic. Not having a permit doesn’t automatically mean your home can’t be sold, but it does mean we need to address it transparently and strategically.
Here’s what I recommend:
Confirm what permits exist (or don’t) with the RMWB
Talk to a licensed contractor or inspector to assess the work done
Work with your REALTOR® to disclose accurately and prepare for buyer questions
If possible, apply for retroactive permits and have the work inspected before listing
Disclosing a lack of permits doesn’t always scare buyers off, but it can open the door to renegotiation, longer condition periods, or worse, buyer walkaways. Being proactive gives you the best chance at a smooth, clean sale.
Keep Your Own Permit File
If you’ve had work done over the years, keep your permits, inspections, and receipts in a file. When it’s time to sell, being able to hand over this information to your REALTOR® (and eventually the buyer) is incredibly valuable.
Think of it like a service record for your house. Buyers appreciate transparency, and having everything ready to go makes your home stand out in a competitive market.
Make Selling Easier: Be Permit-Prepared
As an active REALTOR® in Fort McMurray, I always advise my clients to take the time to prepare their homes properly before listing. That includes permits or knowing what to disclose, pre-listing inspections, and a solid pricing and marketing strategy.
If you’re thinking about selling and you’re not sure what permits you have or what you might need, let’s talk. I’ll guide you through the process, help you connect with professionals, and make sure you’re set up to sell with confidence and clarity.
Not sure where to begin? I can walk you through what’s needed and help you get market-ready with confidence.
Your next move starts with the right plan.
Written by Kate Arnold | REALTOR® with Coldwell Banker United