The Proof is in the Permit
By Elise Vaidya
Welcome to my regular column with tips and guidance for homeowners in the Willistons. I am Elise Vaidya. I am a passionate Code Enforcement Official in a local village in Nassau County and a local resident of East Williston. I have a rich background in architecture, commercial real estate, and government and am excited to share my expertise and advice, helping our community thrive and ensuring your homes are safe, beautiful, and up to code.
Common Issues from Work Without Permits
One of the most common issues I see for homeowners involves work performed without a permit. When you buy a home, a title search is typically performed, looking for open permits and violations on the property. While this is a helpful tool, it does not search for something even more important: work performed without a permit.
Potential Hidden Problems
That beautifully finished basement, remodeled bathrooms and kitchen with new appliances, spacious paver patio and outdoor kitchen, gas fireplace, or brand-new split AC system could all be major problems for the next owner if they were not done legally. This is why it is so important to be an informed buyer and homeowner.
Common Misconceptions
I know what you’re thinking: “I didn’t do it,” “It was there when I moved in,” “It didn’t come up when I bought the house,” “It’s just an AC unit, why do I need a permit?” “It was on the survey, so it must be legal.” Even though you may not have been the one to install that generator or finish that basement without a permit, once you own the house, it becomes your violation to legalize and maintain.
Costs of Legalizing Unpermitted Work
This can become costly, as most municipalities have higher fees for applications to legalize and maintain existing work. Depending on the type of work, you may also need to hire a contractor, electrician, plumber, architect, etc., to bring it up to code or certify the work performed, which can add up.
Why Permits Are Important
While there are many reasons that construction work may have been performed without a permit, there are important reasons why permits are required, including protecting homeowners. Some homeowners find the permitting process cumbersome, some are misled by the professionals they hire, and some simply have no idea that the work they are doing requires a permit. Either way, permits ensure that the work is done properly, to code, and without cutting any corners.
Protecting Yourself
The best way to protect yourself is to educate yourself. When buying a house, don’t be afraid to ask questions and verify that there is documentation for the things you see. When you own a house, make sure to reach out to your local building department for guidance on what requires a permit. Whether you live in one of the incorporated villages or under the jurisdiction of the Town, it is always best to ask before doing anything so you know what is expected and required.
The Role of Building Departments
At the end of the day, the building department is there for you. Building departments, codes, and code officials exist to protect homeowners and the public.
About the Author: Elise Vaidya is a local resident of East Williston and lives here with her husband and three year-old son. She is a Code Enforcement Official in a local village in Nassau County with a rich background in architecture, commercial real estate, and government. Elise is excited to share her expertise and advice, helping our community thrive and ensuring homes are safe, beautiful, and up to code.
