“The Cash Offer Company”
Unpermitted work is more common than most homeowners think especially in older homes around Richmond VA. Whether it’s a finished basement, added bathroom, or garage conversion, unpermitted renovations can create serious headaches when it comes time to sell.
If you’re worried about what this means for your home sale, let’s break it all down.
What Is Unpermitted Work?
Unpermitted work refers to any structural, electrical, plumbing, or other major changes made to a home without obtaining the proper building permits from the local jurisdiction. In Richmond, this typically means bypassing the city’s permitting process and inspections.
Examples of unpermitted work include:
- Finished basements without egress windows
- Converted garages used as living space
- Additions or sunrooms not listed on public records
- Major plumbing or electrical upgrades without inspection
- Removing walls or changing the home’s footprint
Why Is Unpermitted Work a Problem?
Unpermitted work creates multiple issues during a sale:
- Disclosure risk: Virginia law requires you to disclose known unpermitted work. Failing to do so could lead to legal trouble.
- Inspection concerns: Home inspectors often spot work that doesn’t match permit history.
- Appraisal impact: Unpermitted square footage may be excluded from valuation.
- Financing problems: Many lenders will not finance homes with known unpermitted additions or systems.
This can delay or derail your sale especially if the buyer is using traditional financing.
Can You Sell a House With Unpermitted Work in Richmond?
Yes, you can sell a house with unpermitted work in Richmond VA, but your options vary depending on how you want to sell:
Option 1: Get the Work Permitted (Retroactive Permitting)
This process, sometimes called post-permitting, involves:
- Applying for a permit after the work is completed
- Opening up walls or ceilings so inspectors can see what was done
- Making necessary changes to meet current code
It’s expensive, time-consuming, and not always possible especially for older or DIY jobs.
Option 2: Remove the Work Before Selling
Some homeowners tear out unpermitted additions entirely to avoid risk. This might be the only option if the work violates current building codes or zoning laws in Richmond. But again, it’s labor-intensive and costly.
Option 3: Sell the House As-Is With Full Disclosure
This is the fastest and most stress-free way to sell. By disclosing the unpermitted work in writing and selling as-is, you can move forward without repairs or retroactive permitting. Just know that most traditional buyers will:
- Ask for price reductions
- Walk away after inspection
- Face loan issues
That’s why many homeowners choose to sell to a cash buyer.
Sell to a Cash Home Buyer in Richmond VA
At The Cash Offer Company, we specialize in buying Richmond homes with all kinds of issues including unpermitted work, code violations, and unfinished projects.
Here’s why Richmond homeowners work with us:
- We buy houses as-is, no permits required
- No repairs, inspections, or appraisals
- Close in as little as 7 days
- We handle all the paperwork and title concerns
Whether your unpermitted work was done last year or decades ago, we’ll help you move forward without delays.
Neighborhoods We Serve
We’ve worked with homeowners across Richmond from Forest Hill and Bon Air, to Jackson Ward and The Fan. No matter the neighborhood, we understand local building history and zoning challenges.
Final Thoughts
Selling a Richmond VA home with unpermitted work doesn’t have to be stressful. You have options including skipping the red tape and selling fast for cash.
Contact The Cash Offer Company today for a no-obligation offer. Call us at (804) 215-4004 or email info@thecashoffercompany.com and let’s talk about your property.
Disclaimer: This blog post is for informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Please consult a licensed professional for guidance regarding unpermitted work in your area.