Records
Permit Records Before Selling or Refinancing
Permit records become important when a buyer, appraiser, lender, insurer, or future contractor asks whether work was legally completed.
Records to save
- Permit applications, permit numbers, approved plans, inspection reports, correction notices, and final approvals
- Contractor invoices, product specifications, engineering letters, and warranties
- Photos of concealed work before drywall, concrete, or backfill when allowed
Projects buyers notice
- Finished basements, converted garages, ADUs, decks, pools, additions, new bedrooms, solar, panel upgrades, generators, and major remodels
- Work that changes bedroom count, square footage, occupancy, or utility systems
- Any work visible in listing photos but missing from public permit records
If records are missing
- Search the local permit portal
- Ask the contractor for copies
- Contact the local building department before assuming the work was never permitted
Helpful next pages
Shed Permit
Do You Need a Permit for a Shed?
A practical guide to shed permits, zoning setbacks, size thresholds, foundations, electrical work, and inspection timing.
Fence PermitFence Permit Rules Before You Build
Know when fence height, corner visibility, pools, shared property lines, and historic districts create permit requirements.
Deck PermitDeck Permits, Footings, and Inspections
Decks are one of the highest-risk DIY permit projects because footing depth, ledger attachment, guardrails, and stairs are safety-critical.
This guide is general planning information. Verify current rules with the local authority that reviews your property.