New Hand Rail Permit? Licensed Contractor?

[Steven Clark]

Hello,

I have a section 8 tenant that they are going on the 2nd year renting from me. During the annual re inspection I was told  that the attic needs a handrail ( I didn't realize it never had one). Is this something I can do my self if I look up the local building code or do I need to higher a licence contractor for this? Does a permit need to be pulled for a single stair way?