Free AI Renovation Tools | Permits, Costs, Scope & More | design + bizFree AI Home Renovation Tools | Permits, Costs, Scope & More

Frequently Asked QuestionsPermitWut!
Is this official permit guidance?
No. PermitWut! provides informational guidance based on publicly available data. Always verify requirements with your local building department before starting work.
How accurate is this?
We pull from municipal code databases and zoning records, but requirements can change. Think of this as a well-researched starting point, not a final answer.
What should I do with these results?
Share them with your architect or contractor. Use them to ask better questions. Or talk to one of our advisors if you want help navigating the process.
WattsWut!
How do you calculate my energy savings?
WattsWut! combines your home's building characteristics, local utility rates, and climate data to estimate where energy is being wasted and which upgrades have the fastest payback period.
Do I need my utility bill handy?
It helps but isn't required. We can estimate based on your home's size, age, and location. Adding your actual bill amount makes the savings projections more precise.
Does this include available rebates and incentives?
Yes. We factor in federal tax credits (like 25C and 25D), state programs, and local utility rebates so you see the true net cost of each upgrade.
What should I do with these results?
Use them to prioritize upgrades, get smarter bids from contractors, or talk to one of our energy strategy advisors to build efficiency into your renovation plan.
RiskWut!
Where does the risk data come from?
RiskWut! pulls from FEMA flood maps, wildfire hazard assessments, NOAA climate projections, and county-level property records to build your risk profile.
Is this the same as my insurance company's assessment?
No. Insurers use proprietary models. RiskWut! gives you an independent view so you can have informed conversations with your agent and identify gaps in your coverage.
Can hardening my home actually lower my premiums?
Often yes. Many insurers offer discounts for specific upgrades like impact-resistant roofing, flood vents, or fire-resistant siding. We'll flag which upgrades are most likely to qualify.
What should I do with these results?
Share them with your insurance agent to check your coverage. Use the hardening plan to prioritize upgrades. Or talk to one of our advisors to build risk mitigation into your renovation scope.
CrewWut!
Do I really need an architect?
It depends on the scope. Cosmetic updates rarely need one. Structural changes, additions, or projects requiring stamped drawings for permits almost always do. Our tool explains the reasoning for your specific project.
Should I hire a general contractor or manage trades myself?
A GC handles coordination, scheduling, and quality control. If your project involves 3+ trades, a GC usually saves time and headaches. For simpler projects with 1-2 trades, you may be able to manage directly.
How accurate is this?
We analyze your project description and location to identify the trades typically involved. Every project is unique, so treat this as a well-researched starting point. A consultation with a GC or architect will confirm the specifics.
What should I do with these results?
Use them to start getting bids. Knowing which trades you need helps you ask the right questions and compare quotes. Or talk to one of our advisors for help vetting and managing your crew.
CostWut!
How accurate are these estimates?
These are rough planning estimates based on regional cost data and typical project scopes. Think of them as a well-researched range, not a firm quote. Actual bids from contractors will be more precise.
What's the difference between the three tiers?
Basic uses builder-grade materials and minimal design complexity. Standard uses mid-range materials with some custom touches. Premium uses high-end materials, custom finishes, and typically requires more skilled labor.
Does this include everything?
The estimate covers materials, labor for all trades, permits, architect fees (if applicable), and GC overhead. It does not include contingency (we recommend adding 10-15%), temporary housing, storage, or financing costs.
What should I do with these results?
Use them to set a realistic budget range before talking to contractors. Share the breakdown when getting bids so everyone is pricing the same scope. Or talk to one of our advisors for help evaluating your options.
ScopeWut!
How accurate are these timelines?
These are realistic planning estimates based on typical project durations for your area. Think of them as a well-informed range. Actual timelines depend on contractor availability, permit processing, material lead times, and weather.
Can I use this scope to get bids?
Yes — that's one of the best uses. A detailed scope of work helps contractors give you accurate bids because everyone is pricing the same thing. Email yourself the report and share it when getting quotes.
What's the biggest cause of delays?
The two biggest are permit processing and material lead times. Order long-lead items early (especially custom cabinets, windows, and specialty fixtures), and submit permits before locking in your contractor start date.
What should I do with these results?
Use the scope as a starting point for contractor conversations. Use the timeline to set realistic expectations. Then run CostWut! to understand what it will cost, and CrewWut! to figure out who to hire.