On 9 Jan 2005 20:43:19 -0800, "Oh_Jeeze"
wrote:

Here's a silly question... so why would you pay for a permit and/or
inspector to inspect work you do inside your home? Before someone
scolds me keep this in mind, I am a first time homeowner and I have
only been living in my home for a few months. What types of things
require permits or inspectors? I recently painted some walls, replaced
a toilet, and added a light fixture outside my garage. I have other
things on my agenda for the next few years and I can't see why I would
pay someone to inspect my work. With regards to plumbing, if you don't
do it right you get immediate notification in the form of a leak. The
electrical stuff seems pretty trivial to me since I am an electrical
engineer with a masters degree. Although I must admit to having to
look up the correct wire gauge for the spotlight I added outside my
garage. A follow up question would be what if the previous owner did
something without getting a permit or getting the work inspected?
Would I be responsible for paying for those things?


Permits vary greatly depending where you live. Check your local laws.
If you put up a shed or install a fence without a permit, the city may
fine you and make you take it down. If something was added
incorrectly and you attempt to sell the house, it might become an
issue and stop or delay the sale process. Use common sense and think
safety. A good home repair manual will clue you in on what things
may require a permit.