Stepping into a home with charming, customized features can feel like finding a hidden gem. Still, these unique additions may not always be above board. Before you commit to a property with unpermitted work, understanding the potential risks is essential.
The consequences of unpermitted additions
Unpermitted additions can include extra rooms, garage conversions or even entire floors added without proper documentation. These can lead to several issues:
- Legal troubles: Unpermitted work can violate local building codes. If the local authorities discover these unapproved changes, they may require the new owner to fix or even remove them.
- Financial burden: Fixing unpermitted additions can be expensive. Buyers might need to pay for permits retroactively or demolish and rebuild parts of the property. This can quickly add unexpected costs to your budget.
- Insurance issues: Insurance companies might deny coverage for damages related to unpermitted work. This could leave you paying out-of-pocket for repairs after an accident or natural disaster.
- Resale problems: When you decide to sell the property, unpermitted work can deter potential buyers. It can also decrease the property’s value, making it harder to get a good return on your investment.
Property owners must obtain permits and approvals from local authorities for most construction projects. When homeowners bypass this process, they put themselves and future owners at risk.
Do not take unnecessary risks when buying a property
To avoid the risks of purchasing a property with unpermitted additions, you will need to conduct a thorough property inspection. Performing a detailed title search is also crucial. This process will uncover any legal issues tied to the property.
If you discover unpermitted work, you can negotiate with the seller to bring the property into compliance. Asking them to adjust the purchase price to account for potential costs is also an option.
Consulting with a real estate attorney in Georgia is highly advisable. They can help ensure that all paperwork is in order and that the purchase is free from potential legal headaches.