Stair Replacement to Code

[Jennifer Jackson]

I purchased a 6-plex that was converted from a home. One of the units has a bedroom where the attic used to be and the stairs to the bedroom are not up to code. I am afraid that bringing them up to code will be nearly impossible or very costly. My questions:

1. Does anyone have any experience installing spiral staircases in a small space? What is the cost (I do not care about aesthetics, just want them up to code)?  How is the permitting done/can it be a DIY project, etc. 

2. Should I leave them as is? I read that if I were to sell the house without changing the stairs, I would be "grandfathered in" and not have to bring them up to code. What are the pros and cons of this approach?

I'm sure this issue comes up a lot in flips, so I'm hoping there's a solution that makes sense and won't cost me a fortune. Thanks in advance!