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th3r3dp3n t1_j39jcuh wrote

Counties will often freeze any future permits until you bring the property up to code. They may also have fines, and/or could force you to bring the property up to code if they have strict code enforcement.

In the future, they will be rather restricted if they wanted to sell the home, as lenders will often not lend on a property that has unpermitted modifications or renovations. That means cash only sales, it could also create a variety of issues with home inspectors (if the home was on market) and potential buyers.

Nobody is going to come look at the home out of the blue, however, it potentially could cause issues for future remodels, resale, and renovations.

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Intelligent_Bad8773 OP t1_j39lybt wrote

How would I find out if the county has a straight code enforcement I honestly don't even know where to look. My plan is to try to get a retroactive permit I'm just not sure where to start

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Salmundo t1_j39qjcn wrote

Getting a retroactive permit is a good place to start. With the permit comes an inspection, and if the work is up to code, then you should be good. If it’s not up to code, it will need to be brought up to code.

With a basement apartment, egress is a big issue, as is ceiling height.

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amaninseattle t1_j3a7c4u wrote

Terrible idea. Don’t bill, count or list it as a living space. Check “no” on the form 17 that says have you obtained permits for all remodels. If anyone asks tell them it’s an unpermitted remodel it’s not living space it’s never been a problem there’s no discounts considered and if they can’t accept those terms as what is offered for sale then move on.

Getting “right” with the code enforcement will likely require a tear out of drywall and redo if you’re lucky. Maybe also electrical and framing.

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th3r3dp3n t1_j39rzvb wrote

Some counties are overly strict when it comes to retro-active permits, and if it is not up to code, you may still be required to remove modifications, or they may come up with their own plan.

What county/city (if you feel comfortable sharing that) is the property located in?

The other user that responded is correct (u/Salmundo), ingress/egress may be a real concern. As there are specific rules for windows, escape routes (fire safety), and the like.

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Intelligent_Bad8773 OP t1_j3acr07 wrote

Ingress and egress there's only one way out.... That's actually my biggest concern about the entire apartment he has built.

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