As a homeowner or investor in Allentown, PA, discovering unpermitted work on a property can feel overwhelming. Unpermitted work can complicate the selling process, whether it’s a remodel, an addition, or another improvement. The good news? Getting a retroactive permit is possible—and it can help clear the path to a successful sale. In this blog, we’ll walk you through how to legalize unpermitted work, what it may cost, and how iBuyLehigh can help by purchasing your property as-is.
Understanding Unpermitted Work
Unpermitted work refers to any modifications or improvements made to a property without the required permits from local authorities. Common examples include:
- Room additions
- Electrical or plumbing upgrades
- Structural changes
- Major renovations
Unpermitted work can lead to serious issues—including fines, legal trouble, and roadblocks when it’s time to sell. Addressing these problems before listing your home is essential. Keep in mind that permit requirements vary by location, so it’s important to understand the rules specific to your area.
Steps to Obtain a Permit for Unpermitted Work
1. Assess the Work
Start by taking a close look at all the work that was done. Hiring a professional inspector is a smart first step—they can evaluate the changes and flag any potential code violations you may not be aware of.
2. Gather Documentation
Pull together any documentation you have related to the unpermitted work. This might include original plans, contractor receipts, or records that describe what was done to the property.
3. Consult with a Licensed Contractor
A licensed contractor can give you a clear picture of what it will take to bring the work up to code. They’ll identify any deficiencies and recommend the corrections needed before you can move forward.
4. Submit an “As-Built” Permit Application
Many areas allow homeowners to apply for an “as-built” permit—essentially a retroactive permit for work that’s already been completed. The application will typically require:
- Detailed plans or blueprints
- A description of the work completed
- Any corrections needed to meet current codes
Based on your township, you will need to contact the appropriate department.
Bethlehem – https://www.bethlehem-pa.gov/online-services/forms-and-permits/
Easton – https://www.easton-pa.com/165/Forms-Documents
5. Schedule Inspections
Once your application is submitted, the local building department will schedule inspections to confirm the work meets current building codes. If anything falls short, you’ll need to make corrections and schedule re-inspections before moving forward.
6. Pay Fees
Permits and inspections come with associated fees. Be prepared to budget for costs that may include:
- Permit application fees
- Inspection fees
- Penalties for unpermitted work
7. Final Approval
Once all inspections are passed and any required corrections are completed, the building department will issue your final permit. This officially legalizes the unpermitted work and removes a major obstacle when selling your property.
Associated Expenses
The cost of legalizing unpermitted work varies depending on the scope of the project and your local regulations. Here are some typical expenses to expect:
- Inspection Fees: $100 – $500 per inspection
- Permit Fees: $50 – $2,000 depending on the type and scope of work
- Correction Costs: Variable based on the nature of the deficiencies
- Penalties/Fines: Up to $5,000 or more for significant violations
It’s important to factor all of these potential costs into your budget before moving forward with a sale.
Solutions That Can Help
At iBuyLehigh, we understand how stressful unpermitted work can be—and we’re here to make things easier. As local real estate investors serving the Lehigh Valley, we specialize in buying homes as-is, meaning you won’t need to deal with permits, inspections, or costly repairs. Here’s what working with us looks like:
- Fast and Fair Cash Offers: We provide honest, competitive offers quickly—so you can skip the drawn-out traditional selling process entirely.
- No Repairs or Permits Required: We buy houses in any condition, so unpermitted work is never a dealbreaker for us.
- Simple, Stress-Free Process: Our straightforward buying process is designed to save you time, reduce stress, and get you to closing on your timeline.
Choosing iBuyLehigh means you can move forward with confidence—without the burden of resolving unpermitted work on your own.
Unpermitted work in your Allentown, PA home doesn’t have to stop your plans to sell. Follow the steps above to pursue the proper permits and clear the way for a smoother transaction. Or, if you’d rather skip the hassle and expense altogether, iBuyLehigh is ready to help. We buy properties as-is, on your timeline, with no hidden fees or surprises. Reach out today to get your no-obligation cash offer. (484) 549-0019