Permit or No Permit

[Connor Castillo]

Hi All,

When we moved into our house we had an existing structure in our backyard. It has electrical, but no plumbing. We would like to run a grinder pump to our septic and also add a new electrical panel to be able to handle more and then rent this back house out to tenants. 

The two sub contractors we are working with said they wouldn’t bother with permits because it will make it very difficult to get finished.

We aren’t in a huge rush, but also don’t want to bring the government into this and they shut the entire thing down for one reason or another. I’ve spoken to several GC’s that have all said this is doable and safe.

I’m sure everyone is going to push the permit side on this forum, but can anyone make a case for not pulling permits? 

Thanks 

[Shannon Holt]

Nope. I cannot make a case for not pulling a permit. But, have you fully considered the consequences of not pulling a permit? You mention you want to rent out this back house. Most, if not all, insurance companies will deny any claim on a dwelling with un-permitted construction/upgrades. You're basically giving them all they need to deny a claim.

Not worth it in the long run.

[Laci White]

Getting the proper permits is the only way to protect yourself and your asset long term.

[Bruce Woodruff]

What they said^^^^

No obtaining a permit for a structure that will be a habitable dwelling is just plain stupid... sorry - nothing personal. Get rid of those GCs and Subs too....any legit Contractor (are they even licensed?) would not say this.

If you rent this out and heaven forbid something serious happens to the tenants, you are just absolutely F'ed. 

It. Is. Not. Worth. It.