The 'finished basement' situation recently has reared it head, during re-sales SFDs. A Notice of Violation for non-permitted, non-inspected work is issued to the HO with a $500 to $2000 fine levied. We refer them 'as-builts' when the HO comes in for the permits required to bring the property records up to date. A 'sketch' of the floor plan, a water and sanitary riser diagram (if plumbing installed). A sketch of the lighting/recept layout is also submitted.
The inspection process is 'visual' basically, and IF any major violations/safety issues are observed, wall opening, etc., will be required.
Usually, the 'unknown' persons who did the work are not discovered, the HO pay the fines and permit fees, and on occasion have to hire Lic professionals to make required corrections.
PS: This is one of my 'favorites' when the HO who is selling, chimes in " I'm closing on Friday, could you expedite the permits??"
