If you have been thinking about selling your home, you will need to spend some time getting organized to ensure that you are prepared and ready to list it. This is especially true if you are not the original owner. 

Did you know that under the State of California Disclosure laws, you are required to sign a disclosure statement stating whether you have permits for all alterations and additions to the original home when you sell? 

What this means is that you will need to have copies of any and all building permits that were pulled for projects on your home. This includes home additions and alterations like pools, patio covers, etc., even if these projects occurred prior to you taking ownership.

It is actually quite common for escrows to get held up because permits are missing. And it’s not always easy to track them down when you’re on a tight timeline. The best thing to do is make contact with the City of Laguna Hills Building Department and have them check the records for your property and address. If they exist, they will provide you with copies of any permits for your home. 

And if there is no record of a building permit for a particular project, there is a good chance that the work was completed illegally. Do keep in mind that there are some projects that do not require a permit. These include detached structures that are less than 120 square feet, kitchen cabinet changes, concrete patios and walls, painting, and carpeting. If you are questioning any additions to your home or have permitting questions, call the City of Laguna Hills Building Department directly for the quickest answer.

In the event that you discover an unpermitted project on your property, there are steps you can take to obtain a legal permit. This includes drawing up a lot plan that details the property lines of your lot and where the addition is located along with your setbacks. The City can help you determine your specific setback requirements.

Next, draw-up construction plans that show how the addition is constructed. These should be very detailed and should mimic any plans that you would have taken to the City for approval before starting the project. If your project includes a patio cover, the City of Laguna Hills Building Department has approved detail sheets that you can use instead of plans.

Finally, you will need to submit three copies of this information to the City of Laguna Hills Building Department. They are open Monday-Friday from 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m., but please call to verify their current working hours due to the pandemic. You will be required to pay the necessary fees, which could include double fees that are charged when work has been completed without a permit. Once approved, you will be given a building a permit and can start inspections.

Melody Smith & Associates is a longtime leading broker associate in South Orange County, known for super service and is in the top 1% of 1% of agents in the country. Please contact us for all of your real estate needs. 949-401-7033