Attic Finished Without Permit

A finished attic without a permit.

Attic finished without permit.

Additions to homes and finished basements are some of the most common. The only upside to a permit is that then the county has it on record that the home has more useable sq ft and it makes it look like your house is updated or worth more the of course downside is that they may then assess more taxes on you. With full home additions costing 75 000 minimum and usually far higher many homeowners search for creative ways to increase living space without overly decreasing their bank account. One way is by working within the home s existing footprint and converting the attic into living space.

Before finishing an attic get the necessary permits from your local housing commission so you don t get in trouble later on if you try to sell your house. Unpermitted work is construction on a home that does not carry the necessary permits to make it legal per local ordinances. Finishing your attic can add space and utility and increase the value of your home as long as it s done properly. What is unpermitted work.

Every attic is different but a few established norms and practices will guide your renovation. However most people can get away with it many do entire remodels without permits. What should you do about unpermitted work when buying or selling a home. While the legal requirements for permits depends on your jurisdiction and the nature of the renovation here are five pitfalls you may encounter if you try renovating without a permit.

Follow the rule of 7s. Ethan rothstein march 10 2015 at 2 30pm. By applying for a permit you can verify that the commercial contractor is doing the work up to code and that it is done right without any shortcuts. Enforcement varies but codes typically say that at least half of a finished attic must be at least 7 feet high and that this area must be a minimum of 7 feet wide and 70 square feet.

If you need any advice about completing a home improvement construction or obtaining a building permit for your refinished basement or refinished attic please feel free to contact us at any time. A contractor or a local building. This regularly scheduled sponsored q a column is written by adam gallegos. Whether you are a buyer or a seller improvements done without permits can prove.