General

Like-for-Like repair permits will be expedited; please specify STORM DAMAGE in the permit description and provide a detailed scope of work including if the damage was caused by trees or wind. Code Compliance will be field verified by building inspectors and in most cases plans/drawings will not be required. You may begin repair work once you have submitted your permit application. Permit fees will need to be paid online and the permit ‘issued’ before you will be able to schedule an inspection.

You can apply for a permit online: https://aca-prod.accela.com/MISSOULA/Default.aspx

Preventing Further Damage

Take all necessary and reasonable steps to prevent further damage, e.g., remove trees from your dwelling, tarp roof if necessary to prevent interior water damage and install temporary shoring where needed to prevent further damage. We recognize many homeowners may need to reach out to their insurance company before a contractor may begin work on the repair.

Roof Repairs

A roofing permit is NOT required for damage that meets ALL of the following criteria:

• Damage to the roof is minor, such as patching in a few shingles.
• The repair does not require new underlayment.
• The repair area is less than 10’x10’

A permit IS required for more extensive roof damage as well as anytime you are cutting away any wall, partition, structural beam, load-bearing support, or portion thereof. An engineered repair detail may be required on a case by case basis, but our Building Inspectors should be able to field-verify the majority of repairs. If you are not sure how to proceed call 406-552-6630.

Siding Repairs

A building permit is NOT required for damage where the repair area is less than 10’x10’ and the repair is like-for-like.

Masthead Electrical Repairs

Meter bases and masts on customers’ homes and buildings may have been damaged during the storm. If a customer’s meter base is damaged, the property owner needs to contact an electrician to make repairs before service can be restored. Even if you clearly see where a meter base or meter mast is damaged, never attempt to make a repair on your own. Up to 240 volts of electricity in a service line could cause severe injury and could start a fire. Repairs can only be made by a licensed electrician.

Customers affected by outages are encouraged to look at their meter bases now. If there is damage, contact an electrician to make repairs safely so that service can be restored as quickly as possible. The electrician will apply for the permit and schedule applicable inspections. Once you have passed a final electrical inspection Northwest Energy will reconnect power.   

Fence Repairs

Fence repairs 25ft or under do not require a permit. For repairs over 25ft, you will need to apply for a fence permit and provide a detailed description of the damage, location of the repair and the project scope/extent of repair to the fence and upload plans for the repair in the documents section.

Additional Safety Tips

To ensure your personal safety and the safety of your clients after severe weather please, follow these safety tips from the National Weather Service:

• Be aware of hazards from exposed nails and broken glass.
• Do not touch downed power lines or objects in contact with downed lines. Report electrical hazards to the police and the utility company.
• If it is dark when you are inspecting your home, use a flashlight rather than a candle or torch to avoid the risk of fire or explosion in a damaged home.
• If you see frayed wiring or sparks, or if there is an odor of something burning, you should immediately shut off the electrical system at the main circuit breaker if you have not done so already.
• If you smell gas or suspect a leak, turn off the main gas valve, open all windows, and leave the house immediately. Notify the gas company, the police or fire departments, or State Fire Marshal's office, and do not turn on the lights, light matches, smoke, or do anything that could cause a spark. Do not return to your house until you are told it is safe to do so.

For More Information

Visit missoula.co/storm for comprehensive storm information and resources for assistance.