Hi. I am looking to buy a house in Santa Monica. I strongly suspect that the house has modifications for which there are no permits. I asked the seller to show me the permits he has obtained but he is not the first owner. I am also going to request records from the city. Even if I have all the permits in front of me, how can I be certain I am not buying a house with un-permitted modifications. Is there an inspection I can pay city to request and they certify that the property is in compliance?
Developer · Santa Clarita, CA · Member since 2008 · 15k+ posts · 10k+ votes
6y
There are either permits or there are not, a simple check on that with your title rep, architect, or direct at LADBS can get you that answer. Once you know what is permitted, you can see from the plans of that permit if it matches the existing structure.
Real Estate Agent · Venice, CA · Member since 2015 · 182 posts · 125 votes
6y
@Mikhail Malamud I would call Santa Monica and ask for the permits on the property. You probably need to do a records request for the permits.
When you get the home inspected, provide the permits to the inspector and ask him to identify any potentially unpermitted work. Your agent should be able to help pull title and give you some more background on the property, but only for major changes.