Selling a house with unpermitted work can challenge homeowners in Oklahoma. Unpermitted work refers to any renovations, additions, or alterations made to a property without obtaining the necessary permits from local authorities.
Whether it’s a finished basement, an added bathroom, or a modified kitchen, unpermitted work can lead to complications during the selling process. In this comprehensive guide, we will cover everything you need to know about dealing with unpermitted work when selling a house, including how to get a permit after work is done, the consequences of unpermitted residential work, when a permit is required, how to check house permits, how to legalize unpermitted work, the permitting process, and some of the costs you may encounter.
How to Get a Permit After Work Has Been Done
Assess the Situation
The first step in obtaining a permit for already completed work is to assess the scope of the unpermitted work. This involves identifying all alterations, additions, and improvements made without permits. A thorough inspection by a licensed contractor or home inspector can help you to identify any unpermitted work. Hire a licensed contractor or architect to assess the unpermitted work and provide guidance on how to bring it up to code. They can help you prepare the necessary documentation and navigate the permitting process.
Contact the Local Building Department
Reach out to your local building department to discuss your situation. They can provide guidance on the necessary steps to obtain permits retroactively. This process often involves submitting detailed plans of the completed work and scheduling inspections.
Prepare Documentation
Prepare detailed plans and specifications for the unpermitted work. These plans should accurately represent the completed work and include any necessary corrections to meet current building codes. Gather all necessary documentation for the unpermitted work. This includes detailed drawings, plans, and specifications of the completed work. If possible, locate any original plans or permits that were issued for other parts of the house to provide context.
Submit Permit Applications
Submit the permit applications to the local building department. The applications should include all required documentation, such as plans, specifications, and descriptions of the work. Be prepared to pay application fees at this stage.
Schedule Inspections
Once the permit applications are submitted, the building department will schedule inspections to verify that the completed work complies with current building codes. Depending on the extent of the work, multiple inspections may be required.
Make Necessary Corrections
If the inspections reveal any code violations or deficiencies, you will need to make the necessary corrections to bring the building up to code. This may involve hiring licensed contractors to ensure the work is done correctly. After making the corrections, schedule follow-up inspections.
Obtain Final Approval
After all inspections are passed and corrections are made, the building department will issue final approval or a certificate of occupancy. This document confirms that the work complies with local building codes and regulations.
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Consequences of Unpermitted Residential Work
Legal and Financial Risks
Unpermitted work can expose homeowners to legal and financial risks. If discovered by local authorities, you may face fines, penalties, and orders to remove or correct the unpermitted work. This can be costly and time-consuming.
Reduced Property Value
Unpermitted work can reduce the market value of your property. Potential buyers may be deterred by the presence of unpermitted work, fearing future legal and financial complications. This can make selling the house at a fair market price difficult.
Difficulty Obtaining Financing
Lenders often require that all work on a property be properly permitted and compliant with building codes. Unpermitted work can make it challenging for buyers to secure financing, further complicating the sale process.
Complications During Home Inspections
Unpermitted work can raise red flags for inspectors during the home inspection process. This can lead to delays, renegotiations, or even the cancellation of the sale if the buyer is unwilling to proceed.
Liability Issues
Homeowners can be held liable for injuries or damages resulting from unpermitted work. This can include structural failures, electrical fires, or plumbing issues that cause water damage. Liability issues can result in costly legal battles.
Increased Insurance Premiums
Insurance companies may charge higher premiums or deny coverage for properties with unpermitted work. This is because unpermitted work is considered higher risk due to the potential for code violations and safety hazards.
When a Permit is Required for Home Repairs
Common Home Repairs Requiring Permits
- Structural Changes: Any changes to a house’s structural components, such as adding or removing walls, require a permit.
- Electrical Work: Installing new electrical wiring, outlets, or circuits requires an electrical permit.
- Plumbing Work: A plumbing permit is required to modify or install new plumbing systems, including water heaters and sewer lines.
- HVAC Systems: Installing or replacing heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems requires a mechanical permit.
- Additions: Building additions, such as new rooms or extensions, require a building permit.
- Roofing: Major roofing repairs or replacements often require a permit.
- Windows and Doors: A permit is required to install new windows or doors that alter the structure or size of openings.
- Decks and Patios: Constructing or modifying decks, patios, or other exterior structures requires a permit.
Minor Repairs Typically Not Requiring Permits
- Painting and Wallpapering: Cosmetic changes such as painting and wallpapering usually do not require permits.
- Flooring: Installing new flooring, such as carpet, tile, or hardwood, typically does not require a permit.
- Minor Plumbing Repairs: Minor plumbing repairs, such as fixing leaks or replacing faucets, usually do not require permits.
- Landscaping: Basic landscaping and gardening activities typically do not require permits.
How to Check House Permits
Contact the Local Building Department
The easiest way to check if permits have been pulled for work on your house is to contact the local building department. They maintain records of all permits issued for properties within their jurisdiction.
Use Online Permit Databases
Many municipalities offer online databases where you can search for permits by property address. These databases provide information on issued permits, including the type of work, status, and inspection results.
Review Property Records
Review property records, including title reports and previous sale documents, to identify any mentions of permitted work. These records can provide insights into past renovations and improvements.
Hire a Professional Inspector
A professional home inspector can identify unpermitted work and verify if the necessary permits were obtained. Inspectors are trained to recognize signs of unpermitted alterations and can provide detailed reports.
The Permitting Process
Determine Permit Requirements
Contact the local building department to determine the specific permit requirements for your project. Requirements vary based on the type and scope of work.
Prepare Permit Applications
Prepare the permit applications, including detailed plans and specifications of the proposed work. Ensure that all necessary documentation is included.
Submit Applications and Pay Fees
Submit the permit applications to the building department and pay the required fees. Keep copies of all submitted documents for your records.
Schedule Inspections
Once the permits are issued, schedule inspections at various stages of the project to ensure compliance with building codes. Inspections may be required before, during, and after the work is completed.
Make Necessary Corrections
If the inspections reveal any deficiencies, make the necessary corrections to bring the work up to code. Schedule follow-up inspections as needed.
Obtain Final Approval
After all inspections are passed and corrections are made, obtain final approval from the building department. This will ensure that the work is compliant with local building codes and regulations.
Associated Costs
Permit Application Fees
Permit application fees vary based on the type and scope of work. Typical fees range from $50 to $2,000 or more.
Inspection Fees
Inspection fees are often included in the permit application fees, but additional fees may apply for follow-up inspections. Typical fees range from $100 to $500 per inspection. Because of this, it’s important to get the work done right the first time.
Correction Costs
The costs of correcting code violations or deficiencies vary based on the nature of the work. Hiring licensed contractors to make necessary repairs can cost anywhere from a few hundred to several thousand dollars.
Penalties and Fines
If local authorities discover unpermitted work, you may face penalties and fines. These can range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars, depending on the severity of the violations.
Professional Fees
Hiring professionals such as contractors, architects, or inspectors to assist with the permitting process can add to the overall costs. Typical fees vary based on the scope of the project and the professionals involved.
How Petit Home Solution-We Buy Houses Can Help
At Petit Home Solution-We Buy Houses, we understand that dealing with unpermitted work can be overwhelming and expensive. As real estate investors, we specialize in purchasing properties as-is, meaning you don’t need to worry about obtaining permits or making repairs. Here’s how we can assist:
- Quick and Fair Offers: We provide fast and competitive offers, allowing you to sell your property without delay.
- No Permitting Hassles: We buy houses in any condition, so you don’t need to navigate the complex permitting process or make costly corrections.
- Streamlined Process: Our straightforward buying process ensures a smooth and stress-free transaction.
By choosing Petit Home Solution-We Buy Houses, you can avoid the complications and expenses associated with unpermitted work, making it easier to sell your house quickly and efficiently.
Selling a house with unpermitted work involves navigating a complex and often costly process. From obtaining permits after the work is done to dealing with potential consequences, it’s essential to understand the steps involved and the associated costs. However, if you prefer a hassle-free solution, Petit Home Solution-We Buy Houses offers a convenient option by purchasing properties as-is. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you sell your house without the stress and financial burden of dealing with unpermitted work. (918) 324-3848