Selling a house with unpermitted work can challenge homeowners in California . 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 and most crucial step in obtaining a permit for work that has already been completed is to assess the situation thoroughly. Start by identifying all the work that was done without proper permits. This could include alterations, additions, electrical or plumbing work, or other modifications made to the property.
To accurately determine the scope of unpermitted work, it may be helpful to enlist the help of a licensed contractor, architect, or home inspector. They can conduct a comprehensive inspection of the property and identify any changes that need to be addressed. An experienced professional can also provide guidance on how to bring the work up to current building codes, offering suggestions for corrections that may be needed to meet safety and structural standards.

Contact the Local Building Department
Once you’ve assessed the situation, the next step is to reach out to your local building department. The building department is the governing body responsible for enforcing building codes and issuing permits. Contacting them early in the process is essential to understanding what’s required to bring the work up to code.
Explain your situation and inquire about the steps you need to take to obtain permits for the work that has already been done. The building department may provide you with specific instructions on how to proceed, including whether you need to submit detailed plans of the completed work and whether you need to schedule any preliminary inspections before submitting the permit applications.

Prepare Documentation
One of the most important aspects of retroactively obtaining a permit is preparing the necessary documentation. This documentation will serve as the foundation for your permit application and must accurately reflect the work that has been completed.
Start by gathering all available documents related to the unpermitted work, including detailed drawings, plans, and specifications. These should outline the exact scope of the work that was done. If possible, try to locate any original building plans or permits that were issued for other parts of the property, as these can provide helpful context for the unpermitted work and may expedite the approval process.
In some cases, the building department may request that you submit updated plans or drawings to ensure that the work now conforms to current building codes. This could include revisions to address code violations or to meet new regulations that may have been implemented since the original work was completed.

Submit Permit Applications
With the documentation in hand, the next step is to submit your permit application to the local building department. Be sure to include all of the required materials, such as detailed plans, specifications, and a description of the work that was done. The more comprehensive and accurate your application is, the smoother the approval process will be.
In addition to submitting your application, you may be required to pay application fees. These fees can vary depending on the scope of the work and the locality. Be sure to check with the building department for specific fee structures, as failure to pay the required fees could delay the permitting process.

Schedule Inspections
Once the permit application is submitted, the building department will typically schedule one or more inspections to verify that the completed work complies with local building codes. These inspections are a key part of the process and will help ensure that the work meets safety standards and is structurally sound.
Depending on the extent of the work, you may need to schedule multiple inspections, including specific checks for plumbing, electrical, and structural integrity. It’s important to be prepared for these inspections by ensuring that the property is accessible and that all areas requiring inspection are properly prepared.

Make Necessary Corrections
If the inspections reveal any issues or code violations, you will need to address them before the project can be approved. These corrections could range from minor adjustments to major changes that ensure the work meets current safety and building standards.
In many cases, you may need to hire a licensed contractor to carry out the necessary corrections. It’s important to ensure that all changes are made in accordance with local building codes and that they are properly documented. After completing the corrections, you’ll need to schedule follow-up inspections to confirm that the changes have been made successfully.

Obtain Final Approval
Once the inspections are complete and any necessary corrections have been made, the building department will issue final approval or a certificate of occupancy for the completed work. This final approval signifies that the work meets all local building codes and that it is safe for use.
The certificate of occupancy is an important document that confirms that the work is compliant and that the property is legally habitable or usable. Depending on the scope of the work and local regulations, you may be required to display this certificate in the property or submit it to other authorities (such as insurance companies or future buyers).
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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
Whether you’re renovating your home or simply making repairs, knowing when a permit is required is essential. Permits are typically needed when the work involves changes to the structure, systems, or safety of the home. Failing to obtain a permit for required work can lead to legal issues, delays in selling the home, and complications with insurance. Below is a comprehensive overview of common home repairs that require permits, as well as those that usually don’t.
Common Home Repairs Requiring Permits
- Structural Changes
Any work that affects the structural integrity of your home, such as removing or adding walls, altering load-bearing beams, or modifying the foundation, generally requires a permit. Structural changes can have a significant impact on the safety of the property and the people living there, which is why they must comply with building codes. It’s important to ensure that any work done in this category is inspected to avoid compromising the safety or value of your home. - Electrical Work
Installing new electrical wiring, circuits, outlets, or lighting fixtures usually requires an electrical permit. This type of work is considered dangerous if not done correctly, and improper electrical work can lead to fires or electrocution hazards. Whether it’s upgrading the electrical panel, adding new outlets, or rewiring areas of the home, all electrical work must be inspected to meet safety codes and prevent future hazards. - Plumbing Work
Any modification to plumbing systems, such as installing new water lines, sewer lines, or fixtures like sinks and water heaters, requires a plumbing permit. Plumbing work involves potential risks like water damage, leaks, or contamination, so it is essential that it complies with health and safety regulations. Major changes to the plumbing system also require inspections to ensure they meet the necessary standards. - HVAC Systems
Installing or replacing heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems requires a mechanical permit. HVAC systems are integral to the comfort and safety of a home, and improper installation can result in inefficient heating or cooling, or even pose a fire hazard. Whether you’re installing a new HVAC system or upgrading the existing one, you’ll need a permit to ensure the installation is done safely and up to code. - Additions
Any building additions, such as adding new rooms, expanding a garage, or constructing a home extension, requires a building permit. Additions often involve changes to the structure or footprint of the house, and the work must comply with zoning laws and safety codes. In addition to the structural considerations, you will need to ensure that the addition integrates with existing systems like plumbing and electrical without causing issues. - Roofing
Major roofing repairs or replacements generally require a permit, especially if the work involves removing or replacing roofing materials or altering the roof’s structure. Roofs are a key part of protecting the home from weather elements, and improper roofing work can result in leaks, structural issues, or even roof collapse. It’s essential to ensure that the materials used and the installation process meet building code standards. - Windows and Doors
If you are installing new windows or doors that alter the structure or size of existing openings, a permit is typically required. This applies whether you’re replacing windows and doors or installing entirely new ones. This type of work can affect the home’s energy efficiency, structural integrity, and security, so it is important that the installation is up to code. - Decks and Patios
Constructing or modifying decks, patios, or other exterior structures often requires a permit. Since decks and patios are permanent additions that may affect the overall structure and safety of the property, they need to be built in compliance with local building codes. You may also need permits for associated elements like railings or stairs. Depending on the scope of the project, inspections may be required to ensure the work is done safely.
Minor Repairs Typically Not Requiring Permits
- Painting and Wallpapering
Cosmetic changes such as painting walls, ceilings, or applying wallpaper generally do not require a permit. These activities are considered non-structural and do not alter the building’s integrity. However, if the work involves removing or replacing certain materials (e.g., lead paint), or if the project involves changes to the building’s exterior, you may need a permit or approval from a local authority. - Flooring
Installing new flooring materials like carpet, tile, hardwood, or laminate usually does not require a permit, as long as it does not alter the structure or systems of the home. Minor flooring updates are generally seen as cosmetic and non-invasive, meaning no inspections or permits are typically needed unless the work is extensive or affects underlying systems, such as wiring or plumbing. - Minor Plumbing Repairs
Small plumbing repairs such as fixing leaks, replacing faucets, or unclogging drains do not typically require a permit. However, if the work involves significant changes, like installing new plumbing fixtures, rerouting pipes, or replacing water heaters, then a permit will likely be required. It is important to note that even minor plumbing work may still need to be inspected in some jurisdictions, especially in cases of water damage or potential contamination. - Landscaping
Basic landscaping activities, including planting trees, shrubs, or grass, generally do not require a permit. Additionally, routine yard maintenance like mowing the lawn or pruning trees falls outside of permit regulations. However, larger-scale landscaping projects, such as building retaining walls, installing irrigation systems, or making significant changes to the grading of the land, might require permits depending on local laws and the project’s scope.
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
Before starting any project, it’s essential to determine whether a permit is required. Contact your local building department to clarify the specific requirements for your planned work. Different types of work—such as electrical, plumbing, structural changes, or HVAC installations—have varying permit requirements. The department will inform you of what’s needed based on the scope and location of your project. In some cases, the department may require a pre-application consultation to help you understand the necessary steps for approval.

Prepare Permit Applications
Once you know what permits are needed, the next step is preparing the permit applications. This involves gathering detailed plans and specifications for the proposed work, which should clearly describe the scope of the project. You may need to include architectural drawings, engineering reports, or specific product details to ensure the work complies with local codes. Make sure that your application is complete and accurate, as missing or incomplete documentation can delay the approval process.

Submit Applications and Pay Fees
After the permit applications are completed, submit them to your local building department. Along with the applications, you will typically be required to pay any associated fees. These fees can vary depending on the type of work and the value of the project. Be sure to keep copies of all the submitted documents, including receipts for payment, for your records. This documentation will be useful for tracking the approval process and in case any issues arise.

Schedule Inspections
Once your permits are issued, you will need to schedule inspections at various stages of the project. Inspections are a critical part of ensuring the work meets local building codes and safety standards. Depending on the nature of your project, inspections may be required before you begin, during construction, and after the work is completed. Be sure to follow the guidelines for scheduling inspections and allow enough time for them to be conducted before proceeding to the next phase of the project.

Make Necessary Corrections
If the inspections reveal any deficiencies or code violations, you will need to make the necessary corrections. These may involve altering the work to meet the required safety standards or making improvements to comply with building codes. After making the required changes, you will need to schedule follow-up inspections to ensure that the corrections have been made properly. It’s essential to address any issues promptly to avoid delays in the completion of your project.

Obtain Final Approval
Once all required inspections have been completed and any necessary corrections have been made, you will need to obtain final approval from the building department. This approval confirms that the work is compliant with all local building codes and regulations. Depending on the project, the final approval may be in the form of a certificate of occupancy, a final inspection report, or other documentation. This ensures that your project is completed legally, and you can move forward with your work or occupancy without any further complications.
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 We Buy Homes All Over California Can Help
At We Buy Homes All Over California, 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 We Buy Homes All Over California, 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, We Buy Homes All Over California 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. (661) 699-5512