Unpermitted Work in Your Metro Detroit House? Learn How to Obtain a Permit After the Work Has Been Done to Ensure a Smooth Selling Process

As a homeowner or investor in Metro Detroit, discovering unpermitted work in a property can be a daunting experience. Unpermitted work can complicate the selling process, whether it’s a remodel, an addition, or any other improvement. However, obtaining a permit after the work has been done is possible and can help ensure a smooth sale. In this blog, we’ll detail the steps to legalize unpermitted work, outline the associated expenses, and explain how investors like Metro Detroit Homebuyer can assist by buying the property as-is.

Understanding Unpermitted Work

Unpermitted work refers to any modifications or improvements made to a property without the required permits from local authorities. This can include:

• Room additions
• Electrical or plumbing upgrades
• Structural changes
• Major renovations

Unpermitted work can lead to several issues, including fines, legal troubles, and difficulties when selling the property. Therefore, it is essential to address these issues before selling your home. Because requirements vary by area, it’s important to learn about the regulations put in place in your area. 

Steps to Obtain a Permit for Unpermitted Work

1. Assess the Work

Here’s a detailed approach to effectively assessing unpermitted work in your home:

Steps to Assess Unpermitted Work

1. Hire a Professional Inspector:

• Select a Qualified Inspector: Look for a licensed home inspector or contractor with experience in identifying code violations and assessing unpermitted work.
• Schedule the Inspection: Arrange a time for the inspector to evaluate your property thoroughly. Make sure to communicate any specific concerns you have about the work done.

1. Conduct a Comprehensive Inspection:

• Exterior Assessment: Inspect any exterior alterations, additions, or structures, such as decks, patios, or additional rooms, to ensure they comply with local building codes.
• Interior Evaluation: Assess interior renovations, including any changes to electrical, plumbing, and HVAC systems. Check for potential hazards or deficiencies in workmanship.
• Hidden Areas: Ensure the inspector examines areas that might not be immediately visible, such as crawl spaces, attics, and basements, as these can often hide unpermitted work.

1. Identify Code Violations:

• Documentation of Findings: The inspector should provide a detailed report outlining any unpermitted work and code violations discovered during the assessment. This report can be vital for your records and when applying for permits.
• Recommendations for Corrections: Ask the inspector for recommendations on how to bring the unpermitted work up to code. This may include specific repairs or adjustments needed.

1. Review Local Building Codes:

• Understand Relevant Codes: Familiarize yourself with your local building codes and regulations to understand the requirements for the type of work completed in your home.
• Consult the Building Department: If needed, reach out to your local building department for guidance on specific code requirements related to your property.

1. Plan for Remediation:

• Budget for Repairs: Based on the inspector’s findings, assess the cost of bringing the unpermitted work into compliance. Consider getting quotes from licensed contractors for any necessary repairs.
• Prioritize Work: Determine which violations need immediate attention and which can be addressed later. Focus on critical safety concerns first.

1. Documentation for Future Reference:

• Keep Detailed Records: Maintain all reports, inspection notes, and correspondence related to the unpermitted work. This documentation will be essential when applying for permits or when selling the property.

1. Decide on Next Steps:

• Obtain Necessary Permits: If you plan to address the unpermitted work, prepare to apply for the necessary permits with the local building department.
• Consider Professional Help: If the scope of work is extensive, consider hiring a contractor to handle the remediation process, including the permit applications and inspections.

A thorough assessment of unpermitted work is crucial for ensuring your property complies with local regulations. By hiring a qualified inspector, understanding building codes, and planning for necessary repairs, you can effectively address any issues and protect your investment in the long run.

2. Gather Documentation

Collect any available documentation related to the unpermitted work. This could include plans, receipts, or records that detail what was done to the property.

3. Consult with a Licensed Contractor

A licensed contractor can provide valuable insights into what must be done to bring the work up to code. They can help identify deficiencies and suggest necessary corrections.

4. Submit an “As-Built” Permit Application

In certain areas, homeowners can apply for an “as-built” permit, which is essentially a retroactive permit for work that has already been completed. The application will likely require:

• Detailed plans or blueprints
• A description of the work done
• Any corrections needed to meet current codes

5. Schedule Inspections

Once the application is submitted, the local building department will schedule inspections to verify that the work complies with current building codes. If the work doesn’t meet code, corrections will need to be made, and re-inspections will be necessary.

6. Pay Fees

There are various fees associated with obtaining permits and inspections. These can include:

• Permit application fees
• Inspection fees
• Penalties for unpermitted work

7. Final Approval

After all inspections are passed and any necessary corrections are made, the building department will issue the final permit. This legalizes the unpermitted work and clears any potential hurdles for selling the property.

Associated Expenses

The costs of legalizing unpermitted work can vary widely depending on the scope of the work and local regulations. Typical expenses include:

• Inspection Fees: $100 – $500 per inspection
• Permit Fees: $50 – $2,000 depending on the type and scope of work
• Correction Costs: Variable based on the nature of the deficiencies
• Penalties/Fines: Up to $5,000 or more for significant violations

It’s essential to factor these costs into your budget when planning to sell a home with unpermitted work.

Solutions That Can Help

At Metro Detroit Homebuyer, we understand the challenges associated with unpermitted work. As real estate investors, we specialize in purchasing properties as-is, which means you don’t need to go through the hassle of obtaining permits or making costly corrections. Here’s how we can assist:

• Fast and Fair Offers: We provide quick and competitive offers for your property, allowing you to avoid the lengthy traditional selling process.
• No Repairs Needed: We buy houses in any condition, so you don’t need to worry about making repairs or bringing the work up to code.
• Stress-Free Process: Our streamlined buying process ensures a smooth transaction, saving you time and reducing stress.

By choosing Metro Detroit Homebuyer, you can sell your house quickly and move forward without the burden of addressing unpermitted work.

Selling your home in Metro Detroit can be a big step, and if you’ve done some work without the proper permits, you might be feeling a bit anxious about how that could impact your plans. But don’t worry! Just because there’s some unpermitted work doesn’t mean you have to abandon your selling goals. In fact, if you take the right steps, you can navigate through this and still have a smooth selling experience.

First things first: it’s crucial to get those permits sorted out. By following the steps we’ve outlined earlier, you can obtain the necessary permits, ensuring everything is above board. This not only protects you but also makes your home more appealing to potential buyers. After all, buyers want peace of mind, and knowing that everything is legally compliant can give them just that.

Now, if you’re thinking, “That sounds like a lot of work and potentially costly,” I totally get it! Permitting can be a hassle, and the last thing you want is to deal with the stress and expense involved. If that’s the case, I have great news for you! At Metro Detroit Homebuyer, we specialize in buying homes as-is. This means you can sell your property without worrying about making any repairs or obtaining permits.

So, if you’re ready to skip the hassle and get your home sold quickly and efficiently, why not reach out to us? We’re here to help you through the process and make it as easy as possible. Just give us a call at (313) 246-4551, and let’s chat about how we can assist you. Your smooth selling journey is just a conversation away!