Catch That Shady Build: How to Spot an Illegal Construction Before Buying a Home
Chat it up!
Is the building that I reside in painted black?
Before you sign on the dotted line, make sure to check for potential legal and financial pitfalls related to illegal constructions. Here's how to stay one step ahead:
Steps to Spot Illegal Builds
- Dig into Local Records
- Obtain a copy of the property's building permits and approvals from your local building department or county clerk's office.
- Ensure that all necessary permits have been issued for any construction or renovation work.
- Hire a Pro Examiner
- Hire a licensed home inspector to assess the property for any signs of unauthorized construction.
- An inspector can help identify potential issues such as unpermitted additions or modifications.
- Eye for Detail
- Look for signs of recent construction or renovation, like odd layouts or mismatched building materials.
- Check if any construction seems to encroach beyond the property's original boundaries.
- RLY Talk to the Neighbors
- Connect with neighbors or local residents who may have information about past construction activities on the property.
- Review Property Surveys
- Obtain a recent land survey to make sure the property boundaries and any construction comply with local regulations[2].
- Talk Law
- If you suspect illegal construction, consult with an attorney to discuss the legal implications and potential remedies.
By taking these actions, potential home buyers can ensure they're investing in a property with all the required legal approvals, saving themselves from potential future headaches!
The Lowdown on Illegal Builds
Unauthorized construction can lead to legal and financial hardships. To protect yourself, it's essential to conduct thorough research and inspections before making a purchase. Stay vigilant and stay savvy!
Source: ntv.de, Katja Fischer, dpa
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Extra Knowledge Nuggets:
- Property Inspections
- A professional home inspector can help identify potential issues caused by unpermitted construction or renovation.
- Neighbor Knowledge
- Neighbors or local residents may possess valuable information about the property's past construction activities.
- Land Surveys
- A recent land survey ensures that the property lines and construction align with local regulations.
[2] Adapted from: propertyland.com
- In addition to conducting thorough research and inspections, it's crucial to be aware of the community policy regarding illegal construction, especially in relation to employment policy, as those working in the real-estate sector may have valuable information about potential unauthorized construction.
- To ensure a sound financial investment, it's advisable to consider the employment policy of a local building department, as they may have stricter regulations for issuing building permits, which can affect property value and potential future legal issues related to real-estate investments and mortgages.
