Really, like what kind of work? Changing a light fixture? Replacing a
door? A new sink? Everywhere I know work of that type can be done by
the homeowner without a permit or inspection. If permits were required
for most home work, there wouldn't be enough inspectors to handle it.

Certainly you do need permits for improvements that are structural, a
new septic system, well, etc, but I don't think the new homeowner was
contemplating that level of work.