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Many people don’t understand that the permitting process typically is a three-step process: (1) applying for, or “pulling,” the permits, (2) having the permitted work inspected (typically by appropriate building officials or code inspectors), and (3) having the permits closed (indicating that the work has been approved and all appropriate fees have been paid).
Pulling the permits is relatively easy and inexpensive, and many jurisdictions allow one to pull simple permits on the Internet. Having the work inspected is where the main cost usually comes in because building officials, code inspectors, and other appropriate inspectors charge for their time, typically by the hour. When homeowners realize the expense that sometimes is involved in having their work approved and the permits closed, they will occasionally skip the final two steps of the permitting process. And that’s where the problems arise when someone else wants to buy the property that has open permits on it. Here’s a relevant article from Inman News concerning permits and permit history: Home Permit history comes back to haunt Problems may arise from past projects Monday, June 28, 2004 By Dian Hymer Inman News |
Home inspectors often recommend that the buyer obtain a permit history on a home they want to buy. However, most buyers don’t heed this advice, which can lead to problems later.
One homeowner who didn’t check the permit history before she bought found out after closing that a remodeling permit issued in the seller’s name had never received final city approval. She discovered this when her contractor applied for a permit to do some more remodeling. The city wouldn’t issue a new permit until the outstanding permit received a final clearance. When the city inspector checked the work, he refused to pass it because it hadn’t been done properly. The homeowner had to make the corrections before the city would issue a permit for any further work on the property. This was an expense she hadn’t anticipated, and it delayed her remodeling. Another homeowner converted a detached cottage on his property to a bedroom and bathroom for his daughter. This work was done by licensed contractors, but without a building permit. When the homeowner listed his house for sale, a neighbor reported the illegal living unit to the city planning department. The city issued a violation notice to the homeowner. When the buyers were told of this, they insisted that the homeowner bring the unit into compliance with city requirements. The unit was so close to the property line that it was impossible to make it legal. The only way to comply was to remove the structure. |
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