Written by Jayson Elliott · Attorney, Bay Legal PC · CA Bar No. 332479 · Last reviewed April 2026
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
Bay Legal PC — Permit Violation Law Attorneys
Bay Legal PC in Palo Alto handles permit violation law disputes throughout California. Free initial consultations available.
Get a Free Consultation →Frequently Asked Questions
How can I tell if previous work was done without permits?
Check permit records with your building department. Look for additions not in county records, missing permit stickers on electrical panels and water heaters, work that doesn’t match the home’s style, and square footage discrepancies.
Should I check permits before buying a home?
Yes. Run a permit history search with the local building department as part of your due diligence. Compare the permit record to the current condition of the property before closing.
What if my home inspection didn’t catch unpermitted work?
Home inspectors are not required to verify permit status. However, a good inspector will note signs of unpermitted work. You may have a claim against the inspector if they missed obvious indicators.
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Bay Legal PC handles permit violation law disputes throughout California. Tell us about your situation and we'll be in touch promptly.
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Jayson Elliott, Bay Legal PC · Palo Alto, California
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