is just an inspection okay?

Question

We are currently remodeling our kitchen and doing all the work ourself from electric to installing cabinets. If we don't get a permit and finish the work and later get an inspection that passes is that okay? Nothing should come back to us later on down the road if something was to happen if we were to sell right?

Dave Barnard · Answer

Coby,
It is difficult to have permit work inspected after the work is completed. When dealing with electrical, there typically needs to be a "rough" inspection of the work before it's covered up by drywall. The same applies for plumbing. As to the liability issue, there is always a chance of something coming back to you no matter how likely or un-likely that chance may be. It would be my recomendation to have the work permited and inspected. The small cost of a permit can save you a lot of headache in the future.
Dave

J Scott · Answer

When you say:

"...and later get an inspection that passes..."

Do you mean a county building inspection?  Or do you mean a general inspector who might be inspecting for your buyer?

If you mean a building inspector, in most jurisdiction, you won't be able to pass a building inspection without having the correct permits (that's part of the inspection process).

If you mean a general inspector, that won't mean anything.  The property inspector doesn't have the resources to check work behind walls, etc, and may not have the knowledge of building codes to know what was done correctly and what wasn't.

Also, keep in mind that when you go to sell, there is likely a place on the Seller's Disclosure form where it asks if any work was done without permits.  So, your buyers will know...

Edgar B. · Answer

It all depends on your city building department code, if they have pre-sale inspections then that call will be to that inspector, and if no pre-sale is needed only the buyers home inspector and they will check electrical if woking properly and that is it, make sure the work is done according to code and don't cut corners. And if you sell in 2 or 3 years the kitchen will look old by then.

is just an inspection okay?

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