When it comes to upgrading or updating your home, securing the necessary permits is a step that many homeowners overlook or underestimate.
When it comes to upgrading or updating your home, securing the necessary permits is a step that many homeowners overlook or underestimate. While skipping this process may seem like a way to save time or money in the short term, the potential long-term consequences can far outweigh any perceived convenience. Here’s why getting permits is crucial for both homeowners and home sellers.
Why Permits Matter
Permits are more than just bureaucratic red tape; they are a way to ensure that any modifications to your property comply with local building codes and safety standards. Whether you’re remodeling a kitchen, finishing a basement, or making structural changes – such as plumbing, electrical, fencing, windows, HVAC, additions, roofing, or grading – having the proper permits protects your investment and ensures that the work is done right.
Building codes, such as those outlined in the BOCA (Building Officials and Code Administrators) standards, are updated periodically to reflect new safety requirements and construction practices. If you complete work without a permit and fail to pay the associated fees, you risk finding yourself out of compliance with updated codes later on. This could mean costly retrofitting or even tearing out completed work just to bring it up to current standards. These potential setbacks highlight the importance of completing each step of the permit process at the start.
Sellers: Avoid Surprises at Closing
For those planning to sell their home, ensuring all permits are in order can prevent delays or complications during the sale process. Many buyers, through their real estate agent or attorney, will review the property’s history to ensure everything is compliant. Any discrepancies, such as unpaid permits or un-permitted work, could lead to negotiations falling apart or buyers demanding remediation before closing.
By addressing these issues before listing your property, you’ll save yourself and potential buyer’s significant hassle. A clean record of permits also demonstrates that you’ve maintained your home responsibly, which can increase buyer confidence and potentially boost your home’s value. Proactively resolving these matters ensures a smoother transaction and enhances the appeal of your home to potential buyers.
Seller Beware: Follow Up on Permits
Professional contractors may include taking care of the permit process and even making an application for you, but often they do not complete the process by closing them out or paying the fee. If you’ve recently installed a new HVAC system, hot water heater, or similar upgrades, it’s essential to check with your township to ensure the permit was finalized. Overlooking this step can lead to complications later, especially during the selling process, as unresolved permits can delay closings or require additional fees and inspections.
The Bottom Line
Obtaining permits is an essential step for anyone making updates to their home. Not only do they ensure compliance with local building codes, but they also protect your investment, prevent costly surprises and provide valuable transparency for buyers and sellers alike. By taking these proactive measures, you’ll safeguard your home’s value and enjoy peace of mind for years to come. Whether you’re a homeowner planning a renovation or a seller preparing to list your property, understanding the role of permits is essential.
About the Author
Pat along with her husband, Mike Settar, have been Harrison Township residents for 31 years. Pat and Mike raised their three daughters, Meryl, Carly, and Paige in Mullica Hill. All three Settar girls attended the highly-rated Harrison Township Elementary Schools and graduated from Clearview Middle and High School. Pat and Mike love being residents and raising their family in Mullica Hill.
Pat Settar is a prominent member of the community. She is the Chair of the Harrison Township Beautification Committee, a proud supporter of the Harrison Township Historical Society, an annual sponsor of Harrison Township Day and Lights on Main, and supports a variety of other causes in our town.
Pat has been recognized with several Real Estate industry accolades, including the Top 1/2% in the BHHS Network, a member of Philly Magazine’s Who’s Who for Top Producers, and a Platinum Award from the Board of Realtors, and many others. Her most cherished industry honor is the Don Brogan Peer Appreciation Award. Pat was chosen for this prestigious award by her peers from the Gloucester/Salem Counties Board of Realtors for her high ethical standards, maintaining cooperation with others in the industry, having a spirit for the Real Estate business, and her knowledge of the profession. Pat Settar has built an all-female team and is proud to mentor and support these incredible women in their Real Estate careers. The Pat Settar Team has a 5-star rating on Zillow, she says that making her clients happy, makes her happy!