Attic remodel permit question

[Karen Rodriguez]

Hi Everyone,

Newbie question...

If I buy a property that has a bonus room addition that was never properly permitted, is it better to just to leave it be or would it be possible to get the space permitted now since I am a new buyer?  I am not worried about safety issues for my future renters since the space has been inspected and construction is good but just thinking if it is even possible to obtain permitting after the fact?  Obviously I don't want to wake a sleeping giant and have someone tell me I have to tear it down and start over.  

Also if I ever go to sell can I still list as five bedroom even if 5th bedroom was not permitted? 

Thanks!

Karen

[Kris Haskins]

wow, I've had nightmare with attics.  before you can even make attic living space, there must be a survey showing how deep the foundation is on the structure.  They will dig down around your footer or slab to see if it is the correct thickness or depth to support the 2nd floor.  That's just the start.  Like You're in for a serious uphill battle either way, I'd say.  @David Krulac said, every inspector is different.  I've even seen an inspector pass a footer, then later another inspector come by and cancel the pass and turn it into a fail.  Good luck...   IF this info helps you in any way, pls vote for my post...