Newbie - Question about Duplex/Triplex zoning?

[Justin Bernsten]

Hello Everyone!

I am planning to get into REI in the near future and our first property may actually be the property we currently rent. It is an end unit townhouse that is set up as a duplex (1/1 upstairs and 2/1 downstairs with an unfinished basement).

My questions are mainly related to zoning and code. 

1. I believe that the home is properly zoned as a duplex (separate meters set up) but would like to confirm this, do I contact the county clerk?

2. The first floor unit (which we are renting) has a room built as an addition. I have concerns that it is not built to code and did not have building plans approved... Is there a way to find this information in public records as well and if so where? If not besides taking the home owners word for it (have not asked her directly yet since we are just beginning to explore this option) how do I proceed? Will an inspector be able to verify if the addition is built to code? I have heard of problems arising related to 'illegal' improvements being costly to fix/increase the difficulty of selling a home so want to make sure I am covered.

3. Currently the basement has minor leakage after very bad storms. I know the headaches involved and some of the ways to address this. If I could properly seal the basement it would be relatively east to finish it and install a shower and potentially a kitchen. The basement as its own entrance/exit. Would i be able to have to property converted to a triplex? How hard is it to do so? How do I find out if that is an option (I believe certain neighborhoods have limits)?

Anyone that could help me think and plan through some of these issues would be great! I would really appreciate it! 

-Justin Bernsten