Never pulled permits like he should have and showed me a fake GC certificate.

Helping to keep permit costs low is the best course of action in my opinion because that will help building in the area.

If you haven't done this already, check out the zoning code for the locality and see what land uses are permitted by right or as a conditional use for this parcel. 

You could check the permits to see who the listed owner is.

Spiral would also require opening up the ceiling which gets into cutting joists and reframing which may require permits and inspections.

I found the deal, analyzed the deal, worked with all the vendors to get them lined up, worked with the city to get through permitting, negotiated the deal as the buyer's agent, and am the boots on the ground for the redevelopment process.

Permit any nuisance on the premises. 48.

Why not call your county permit department, ask to speak with an HVAC inspector and ask him that question.  

Here is a quick high level summary of things you need to consider before you close the land.Check with the city or county to determine what is required for all approvals including site plan and building permits, proffers, water/sewer tap fees, bonding requirements, inspections and CO process and time frame for all approvals.You also need to check with the utility companies and get an idea of availability and cost estimates from them for water, sewer, power, gas, cable, installation and connection requirements, tap fees, hookup charges, transformer location and relocation, power line and power pole relocation issues.Check to see if you have to install any manholes, fire hydrants, curb, gutter, sidewalks, street signs, street lighting any specific street design or access requirements,.Check DOT requirements for access, stop lights and permits, traffic studiesDWQ requirements for permits, permit fees, time framesThis is a broad overview of the process and your civil engineer can handle all of this but it's good for you to know exactly what's required.

@Angela Schoenborn Is it legally permitted to be a multi.