Building without a permit can have serious consequences, including legal and financial issues. Here are some of the things that can happen if you build without a permit:

• Cease work order: If the local building department discovers that youve been working without a permit, they may notify you to cease work until you receive the proper building permit.

• Fines: You may be charged $500 or more per day for violating building permit laws. Some jurisdictions may even fine you each day while the construction is in progress. If they discover the work after it’s completed, they will still fine you and require you to apply for the proper permits. If a contractor is involved, the contractor and homeowner may both be fined for the same violations.

• Demolition: You may be required to demolish the work that was done without a permit.

• Difficulty selling your property: When you try to sell your home, you may be required to pay for permits on the unpermitted work. Constructing a major addition without permits could scare off some interested buyers.

• Voiding your homeowner’s insurance: Your homeowner’s insurance may be voided if you have unpermitted work done on your property. This consequence may apply to any work done without a permit, from someone getting injured on your property to electrical fires and beyond.

• Negating the homeowners insurance benefits: Illegal renovations could negate the homeowners insurance benefits youre otherwise entitled to and may not cover your liability.

• Exposure for code compliance: The work may be required to be exposed for code compliance. This includes the footings, framing, electrical, plumbing, HVAC, and insulation. Or you may be required to submit letters from licensed mechanical contractors certifying the work was done in compliance with the current code.

Its important to understand that certain home renovation projects require a permit to ensure that they meet safety codes and standards. While it may seem like a hassle to obtain a permit, it’s important to follow the rules and obtain the necessary permits to avoid any legal or financial issues down the line.