Building Permit
Official approval from local government required before starting construction or major renovation projects.
Why It Matters for Homeowners
Why it matters: working without a required permit creates two specific problems. First, the city can stop the job and require demolition. Second, when the home sells, the buyer's inspector catches unpermitted work, and the lender often requires legal closure before approving the loan. In California, permitted work typically includes structural changes, roofing, electrical, plumbing, and most exterior modifications above a small dollar threshold.
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