Red Flags That Permit Work Was Never Done

Knowing how to spot unpermitted construction can save significant money. Red flags include rooms not in county records, missing permit stickers on electrical panels or water heaters, work that doesn't match the home's style or age, and discrepancies between MLS square footage and assessor records.

Is This a Permit Violation?

If the work was done without required permits, it is a code violation regardless of quality. The question is not whether the work is good — it's whether it was inspected and approved by the building department.

What to Do

• Contact the building department to determine whether permits were obtained
• Evaluate whether after-the-fact permits are available
• Get estimates for any correction work needed
• If a contractor did the work without permits, pursue them for compliance costs
• Consult an attorney if costs are significant or liability is unclear