The Renovation Has Receipts

A beautifully renovated kitchen can come with $40,000 in receipts and still leave one very important question unanswered: Was the work permitted when local rules required it?

An invoice proves that someone completed work and got paid. It does not prove that a permit was obtained, the work passed inspection, or the permit was officially closed.

This does not mean every update needs a permit or that missing records automatically make the house a bad purchase. Requirements vary by project and location. It does mean buyers should look a little deeper when a home has a finished basement, converted garage, addition, or major electrical, plumbing, or structural work.

Ask for the permit number. Check the local building department’s records. Confirm whether required inspections were completed. If the paperwork does not exist, find out what that could mean before the house becomes your responsibility.

If you are considering a home with a major renovation, DM me the address. I’ll help you check the available permit history and identify the questions we need answered before you write an offer.