Cindy Hamilton wrote:
> On May 16, 5:24 pm, brooklyn1 > wrote:
>> On Sun, 16 May 2010 17:02:29 +0100, Janet Baraclough
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>> > wrote:
>>> The message >
>> >from brooklyn1 > contains these words:
>>
>>>> On Sun, 16 May 2010 02:41:49 -0400, "Paco" > wrote:
>>>>> Building codes do not automatically equate to building permits. If
>>>>> work is
>>>>> done by a licensed contractor (plumber, electrician, etc.), at the very
>>>>> minimum, national codes must be adhered to. State, municipal codes would
>>>>> take precedence over national. If a homeowner does the work, well
>>>>> they are
>>>>> on their own.
>>>> This is true. When a homeowner or other unlicenced person does an
>>>> electrical renovation and later the house burns down due to an
>>>> electrical fire homeowners insurance very likely won't pay...
>>> In the UK, if you want to sell your property, potential buyers will
>>> demand to see proof that any
>>> major work you did, complies with building and safety codes. If you
>>> can't produce the evidence, then
>>> mortgage lenders and cash buyers alike, may devalue the price
>>> accordingly, and a new insurer may refuse cover.
>>> Janet.
>> The same in the US, it's called a Full Disclosure Statement, the deed
>> can't transfer without it. The seller also needs to present a
>> Certificate of Occupancy, essentially states the premises is habitable
>> and complies with all permits. Those who say they can do whatever
>> they want haven't a clue or are lying.-
>
> No CO is required in Michigan, except at initial construction. I've
> bought and sold houses here three times, and never saw a CO.
> Each time was a conforming mortgage.
>
> Cindy Hamilton

It varies by state and is not a national law in the US. I do a lot of my
home repairs myself and follow the Uniform Building Code. Some people
don't, Louisiana just adopted the UBC in the last few years and they
still have the buyer beware attitude toward homes. I've bought two here
in the last 22 years and both times had them inspected very thoroughly
by an approved housing inspector firm. Turned down a couple of houses
due to badly done repairs and/or severe problems with different things.
In most of the US it's "Caveat emptor", "buyer beware." You might have
no recourse if someone screws you on the deal.