Where do you find building permits for a property?

Question

Hi,

Is it possible to find building permits for a property? Such as look up how old a roof is? When it was last replaced? Or when the HVAC system was replaced? Etc

I want to be able to find out how old some of the things are on a property so I was wondering if this is possible at all to find online. Or is this something I would need to ask the listing agent for?

Kenneth Garrett · Answer

@Jimmy Lieu

In my area I make a FOIA Request (Freedom of Information Request). The forms are on line and you can request documents such as all permits and inspections related to the property.  Violations, liens, fines, etc.  Zoning setback compliance.  Plays of Survey, etc.  Takes 7-10 days to receive documents no fee.  I do this as part of my due diligence.

Jonathan Greene · Answer

You can do an OPRA request with the town for open and closed permits on a property in most jurisdictions. That will tell you when permits were open and when and if they were closed out. It should always be done when you are under contract on a property to make sure there are no issues that will pop up prior to closing with a CO. Some towns have some documents online, but it's easier to go in person or with COVID, they may be responding to emails. The listing agent sometimes has it, sometimes does not.

Steve Morris · Answer

Kinda think FOIA is over the top, but in Portland, you can see the record (not the permit itself) online at PORTLANDMAPS-DOT-COM.  You want to see an actual permit, worse case, you go to BDS (the planner office) and request to see it.  If older, it may be on micro-fiche.

Kenneth Garrett · Answer

The information is public information.  You are not bound to have the property under contract.   Each state may refer to the document under a different name.

Jimmy Lieu · Answer

Hi Kenneth,

This is great info. I did not know FOIA Requests exist. Just wanted to make sure but this is free? And I can get it for any property in any state?And can I only get this when I have the property under contract I am assuming? Thanks!!

Ray Evans · Answer

@Jimmy Lieu Depending on your city’s requirements those things may or may not have to permitted.I had my personal residence reroofed after storm damage,no permit required and also just added HVAC to a flip and did not need a permit.If I had changed framing permit would have been required.(I like getting a permit because then the public records says if was rehabbed)

Best of Luck

Where do you find building permits for a property?

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