Often times in an inspection, we notice work that might have been performed without a building permit – we usually take this as a warning sign to observe this area closer, hinting that since the work (remodel, improvement or repair) was done by the homeowner themselves and not a licensed professional. Examples of this type of work can come up in minor cases like converting existing space into livable space (a storage room into a bedroom) or major cases like plumbing or electrical, which could lead to expensive damage and repairs if work was not done correctly.
The impo
rtance of getting a building permit is two-fold: it’ll ensure a project was done to standards and it’ll help increase the re-sale value of your home. Potential buyers will want to purchase a home that has standards (set by the permit) maintained. No one wants to buy a house that has questionable (possibly in need of repair) work done on it.
Keep in mind that just because a permit wasn’t pulled doesn’t mean the work was done improperly. Sometimes, even if permits were obtained, inspected, and approved, it could still produce inconsistent work. The review of permitted/unpermitted work will come up in a Full Home Inspection, where we’ll detail questionable work on the property. Usually the seller’s disclosure form has a question that asks “Are you aware of any work performed on the property for which appropriate permits were not obtained”? This box is almost always checked “no”, as you might imagine. This doesn’t mean much, as most homeowners don’t understand what projects require a permit.
Permits should be obtained for these types of projects:
- Structural additions
- Installation of a new roof;
- Adding or blocking off a door or window;
- Adding or relocating electrical outlets;
- Adding or relocating plumbing fixtures, such as showers, sinks or toilets; and
- Converting a garage or storage area to an air-conditioned, occupied area
- Installation of central air-conditioning systems.
Depending on where you live, permitted work can vary. Here are some local resources within the Park City, Summit County and Heber City area. If you are using a contractor for the work on your home, they’ll usually handle these details for you. If you plan to do the work yourself, it’s best to get in contact with your city or county.
To learn more about building permits, InterNACHI, has a great article
