How to write a window & door replacement permit narrative
The reviewer’s checklist for window permits is short: are openings changing, do the new units meet energy code, is egress preserved in bedrooms, and is safety glazing handled near doors and tubs. Answer all four and this is a same-week permit in most places.
What your narrative needs to include
- Count and locations of windows/doors being replaced
- Retrofit (insert) vs new-construction installation — are openings changing?
- U-factor and SHGC against your energy code
- Egress compliance for bedroom windows
- Tempered/safety glazing at hazardous locations
Example: a complete window & door replacement narrative
Project Description
This project involves replacement of nine existing single-pane aluminum windows and one sliding glass door with new dual-pane vinyl units. All replacements are retrofit-style within existing openings; no opening sizes are being altered.
Scope of Work
- Remove existing window sashes and prepare frames for retrofit installation
- Install nine dual-pane vinyl retrofit windows (U-factor 0.30, SHGC 0.23) with exterior sealant and flashing per manufacturer instructions
- Install one dual-pane vinyl sliding glass door with tempered glazing
- Verify bedroom windows maintain existing egress dimensions
- Seal and finish interior and exterior perimeters
Materials & Methods
Dual-pane low-E vinyl windows and sliding door, NFRC rated U-0.30/SHGC-0.23, tempered glazing at the door, exterior-grade sealants.
Work Not Included
Structural header modifications. Stucco or siding repair beyond the window perimeter. Interior window treatments.
Contractor Statement
All units meet the currently adopted energy code for this climate zone, with safety glazing at required locations and egress dimensions maintained at sleeping rooms.
Mistakes that get window & door replacement permits kicked back
- Not stating whether openings change — the difference between an over-the-counter permit and plan review
- Missing U-factor/SHGC values
- No tempered glazing mention at doors, tubs, and stairs
- Reducing bedroom egress with a thicker retrofit frame and not addressing it
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