I am new home owner inherited unfinished basement from previous seller. there is some work done but without county permission. I would like to know your opinion is it worth taking trouble in getting permit with county and redo work. or Just license contractor is good enough to redo basement. Please Guide me what can be pros vs Cons for this situation.
I talked to license contractors and some of them are advising to go without permit as any wayd below grade area isnt counted towards living space.
Hi Jordan. Great question. I would consider risk vs benefit. If you are doing any kind of work that requires permits (ie. adding a bathroom, electric/hvac/plumbing), it may be in your best interest to do it right from the get-go - especially if you think there is a chance you may sell the property down the line. If you don't have the money for it upfront, perhaps contractors can guide you to tell you what is "safe" doing without permits. Permits protect you if there are future safety or insurance issues. Permits DO slow down the process of getting work done and are a nuisance from the investor perspective, but there have been many a time in which they have been in my best interest as a realtor AND investor.