How do you guys stand it ?

[ed morini]

Actually as far being sure of what your getting at the time of sale the p&s should require all the permits be in hand, that way when illegal work is uncovered the responsibility or liability lies with the previous owner and could help you with the building inspector when they are uncovered. Occupancy is the statement by the BI that the house conformed to all the requirements both state and local at the time. Occupancy at least in residential is seldom revoked, compliance is always foremost, therefore asking for the permits, checking for work beyond if any is the best bet.

I guess (but I don't agree) some feel that's it their house, they pay taxes and will do what they want, when they want, and how they want. The problem is that someday they sell the house to you. Compliance begins with at the individual level and I know that it can be a real pain getting all the paper work done prior to working. In our court case prone society do you really want to risk it.

Ed