Florida--code compliance for existing unit?

[Brian Ton]

Greetings BP fam! I am thinking about making an offer on a multi-unit property that has been listed as a "triplex" that is actually a duplex with a detached garage that has been converted into a studio efficiency unit. I'm told by my agent that the current (or previous) seller that did the modification to the garage did not do all of the proper permitting before doing the construction. It is currently occupied.

Found an old listing info reads, "garage can be turned into permitted efficiency for additional income for approx. $6000 to $7000." What do they mean by this? If I were to acquire the property, what would I have do to make this a legitimate (and safe) dwelling without putting myself at risk? Do I need to evict the occupant?

Thanks in advance, all!

[Jeremy England]

Well, it is really up to your county building inspector of what you have to do.  You should go to the building department and have a conversatino with them.  Some munis will want you to open up walls and what not so they can see what's inside.  Some I have heard will just make you tear out the entire unpermitted portion and begin again.