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The Risks of Remodeling Without a Permit
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Most cities require that homeowners obtain a building permit before making modifications
to their residence. Which modifications require a permit vary by city. Also, some
cities are more vigilant than others in enforcing permit laws.
In order for the homeowner to receive a permit, the homeowner or his/her designee
are required to file plans and pay fees to the city. In addition, the improvements
are given a value. If they increase the value of the property, this may result in
an increase in property taxes. Inspections are often required, and this means having
to schedule and then wait for inspectors to approve the work to be done. This process
can be time consuming and inconvenient in the short run. It is for this reason that
some homeowners skip the permit process.
If a permit is needed and you fail to get one, the city may discover this at some
time in the future and getting a permit retroactively can frequently be significantly
more expensive and much more problematic than having obtained the permit before
work commenced. If work is not done in accordance with city procedures or if the
inspector is unable to determine if the work has been done properly, the homeowner
could be required to open walls, tear up floors, so that the inspection may take
place. In addition, by law, work not permitted where a permit was required must
be disclosed to any prospective purchaser. This may cause the owner to discount
their sale price or perform costly or time-consuming repairs before title can be
transferred.
For prospective buyers of a property, save yourself the future hassle and
loss of money by researching whether all work on the premises has been done according
to code and with the proper permits. You may obtain these permits by going directly
to Building & Safety in the municipality in which the property is located or
by hiring a "permit puller" who will research the permits for you.
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