Permit Records Before Selling or Refinancing
Permit records become important when a buyer, appraiser, lender, insurer, or future contractor asks whether work was legally completed.
Reviewed July 26, 2026
Records to save
- Permit applications, permit numbers, approved plans, inspection reports, correction notices, and final approvals
- Contractor invoices, product specifications, engineering letters, and warranties
- Photos of concealed work before drywall, concrete, or backfill when allowed
Projects buyers notice
- Finished basements, converted garages, ADUs, decks, pools, additions, new bedrooms, solar, panel upgrades, generators, and major remodels
- Work that changes bedroom count, square footage, occupancy, or utility systems
- Any work visible in listing photos but missing from public permit records
If records are missing
- Search the local permit portal
- Ask the contractor for copies
- Contact the local building department before assuming the work was never permitted
Helpful next pages
Pool Permits, Barriers, Electrical Bonding, and Inspections
Pools are heavily regulated because excavation, drowning prevention, electrical bonding, drainage, and setbacks all matter.
Water Heater PermitWater Heater Replacement Permit Guide
Many water heater swaps need plumbing or mechanical permits because venting, pressure relief, seismic strapping, gas, and electrical safety matter.
Roof Replacement PermitRoof Replacement Permits, Decking, and Final Inspections
Roof permits help cities verify wind rating, fire rating, underlayment, sheathing repairs, ventilation, and final installation before leaks become expensive.
Search local permit guides or use the document checklist tool before contacting the authority having jurisdiction.
This guide is general planning information. Verify current rules with the local authority that reviews your property.