Work Done Without A Permit
Work done without required permits is in violation of Washoe County's Ordinances and Building Code is considered by default to be illegally constructed work. Below are beneficial reasons to permit non-permitted construction to include:
- Assure that the work meets minimum building code standards.
- Improve property sale. Nevada's disclosure laws require illegal work to be declared prior to sale.
- Include the value of non-permitted work in property value calculations
- Illegal construction can affect your home's insurability.
Legalizing Existing Work
Applying to legalize existing work done without a permit is identical to applying for new work.
- If the work is visible (not covered/enclosed): For small projects such as most simple electrical, plumbing, water heaters fences and reroofs, start the permit application process and obtain a permit.
- If the work is concealed (covered or closed up): There are two options when permitting work that is not visible for inspection.
- First option is to expose or partially expose the work prior to the inspection.
- If the first option is not feasible or financially prohibitive, the second option is to certify the work by a third party. A licensed design professional such as an Engineer, Architect, and Residential Designer or a Contractor licensed in the applicable discipline may provide a certification letter. The letter must state that work completed meets currently adopted codes.
There may be some projects that cannot obtain a permit such as: setback violations, located in drainage ways/easements or technical violations may deny the project. A demolition permit may be required to bring the property into compliance.