How to write a water heater replacement permit narrative
Water heater swaps are one of the most common permits pulled — and one of the most commonly rejected narratives, because contractors treat them as too routine to describe. Reviewers want the fuel type, venting, relief valve discharge, and strapping spelled out.
What your narrative needs to include
- Existing and new unit capacity and fuel type (like-for-like or a change)
- Venting type and any changes (atmospheric, power vent, direct vent)
- T&P relief valve discharge piping and termination
- Seismic strapping (required in many jurisdictions)
- Expansion tank if the system is closed
- Gas line or electrical changes, if any
Example: a complete water heater replacement narrative
Project Description
This project involves like-for-like replacement of an existing 50-gallon natural gas storage water heater located in the garage. No changes to fuel type, capacity, or location are proposed.
Scope of Work
- Disconnect and remove existing 50-gallon gas water heater
- Set new 50-gallon atmospheric-vent gas water heater on existing stand (18 inches above garage floor)
- Reconnect existing 3/4-inch gas supply with new flexible connector and shutoff valve
- Reconnect water supply with new dielectric unions
- Install new temperature and pressure relief valve with full-size discharge pipe terminating outside per code
- Install two seismic straps at upper and lower thirds of tank
- Verify existing B-vent connector condition and clearances
Materials & Methods
50-gallon atmospheric vent natural gas water heater (UL listed), 3/4" copper supply connections with dielectric unions, code-approved T&P discharge piping, seismic strapping kit.
Work Not Included
Gas line alterations beyond the appliance connector. Vent replacement. Water treatment equipment.
Contractor Statement
All work will be performed in accordance with the currently adopted plumbing and fuel gas codes. Inspection will be requested upon completion.
Mistakes that get water heater replacement permits kicked back
- Not stating like-for-like vs. a capacity or fuel change — reviewers treat these very differently
- Omitting the T&P discharge termination point
- No seismic strapping mention in jurisdictions that require it
- Ignoring venting entirely
Write your water heater replacement permit narrative in 60 seconds with PermitPen ($49)