Can you sell a property with open permits in Florida?

Yes, but open permits can delay closing, create lender or insurance issues, and often need to be resolved before the transaction can be completed. Many buyers request permits to be closed prior to closing.

Who is responsible for fixing permit issues during a real estate transaction?

Responsibility is typically negotiated between the buyer and seller, but in many cases, sellers are expected to resolve open permits or violations before closing, especially if required by the lender.

What is an after-the-fact permit?

An after-the-fact permit is required when work was completed without proper permits. It involves submitting plans, inspections, and sometimes corrections to bring the property into compliance with local codes.

How long does it take to resolve permit issues?

Timelines vary depending on the complexity of the issue, the municipality, and whether corrections are required. Some cases can be resolved in a few weeks, while others may take several months.

Can permit issues delay or stop a closing?

Yes. Permit issues are one of the most common reasons for delayed closings. In some cases, they can also lead to renegotiation, financing issues, or deal cancellation if not addressed properly.

What types of permit issues are most common?

The most common issues include open permits, unpermitted additions or renovations, expired permits, and code violations. These often surface during inspections or title review.

Do I need an engineer or contractor to resolve permit issues?

In many cases, yes. If the municipality requires signed and sealed drawings or corrections to existing work, you may need to work with an engineer, architect, or licensed contractor.

What happens if unpermitted work is discovered during escrow?

It can lead to delays, additional inspections, required permits, or renegotiation. In some cases, buyers may walk away if the issue is not resolved quickly.

How do I check permit history for a property in Pinellas County?

Permit history can be checked through local municipal building department websites or by contacting the Authority Having Jurisdiction where the property is located.

When should I bring in a permit resolution specialist?

The earlier, the better. Ideally before listing or as soon as an issue is discovered. Early intervention can prevent delays, reduce costs, and keep your deal on track.

Pre-Listing Permit Check Toolkit

Before you list, know the Risk

Permit Risk Calculator

Stop Permit Issues from Killing Your Real Estate Deal

Use our Pre-Listing Permit Toolkit to identify hidden delays and protect your closing timeline.

Permit issues don't just cause headaches, they kill deals. Whether it’s an unpermitted patio or an open violation from a decade ago, these "hidden" obstacles usually surface at the worst possible time: three days before closing.

Who This Is For

For Realtors, For Title Agents, For Sellers.

Protect your commission by ensuring the property is "Clean to Close" before the first showing. Reduce escrow friction and manage client expectations with quantified data. Avoid last-minute price re-negotiations or buyer walk-outs.

Time-sensitive deals are prioritized.

Our Core Services

Permit Research: We deep-dive into municipal records to find hidden "red flags" before you list or buy.
Permit Closure: We finalize expired or "open" permits by coordinating final inspections and required paperwork.
After-the-Fact Permits: Did work get done without a permit? We help legalize it retroactively to bring the structure into compliance.
Violation Resolution: We negotiate with code enforcement to stop daily fines and resolve active cases.

Advanced Technical Support

Engineer Coordination: We manage the structural or civil engineering site visits and signed/sealed plans required by the city.
Contractor Correction: We find and manage the right licensed professionals to fix physical work that doesn't meet current building codes.

Frequently Asked Questions

New to this process? We got answers.

Quick Property Review

Yes, but open permits can delay closing, create lender or insurance issues, and often need to be resolved before the transaction can be completed. Many buyers request permits to be closed prior to closing.
Responsibility is typically negotiated between the buyer and seller, but in many cases, sellers are expected to resolve open permits or violations before closing—especially if required by the lender.
After-the-fact permits are required when work was completed without proper permits. This often involves inspections, documentation, and sometimes corrections to meet current code standards before approval can be granted.
Timelines vary depending on the complexity of the issue, the municipality, and whether corrections are required. Some cases can be resolved in a few weeks, while others may take several months.
Yes. Permit issues are one of the most common reasons for delayed closings. In some cases, they can also lead to renegotiation, financing issues, or deal cancellation if not addressed properly.
The most common issues include open permits, unpermitted additions or renovations, expired permits, and code violations. These often surface during inspections or title review.
Permit history can be checked through local municipal building department websites or by contacting the Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ) where the property is located.
The earlier, the better. Ideally before listing or as soon as an issue is discovered. Early intervention can prevent delays, reduce costs, and keep your deal on track.
Yes. We regularly assist property owners, real estate professionals, investors, and title companies throughout Pinellas County to resolve permit and code issues that impact transactions and property use.
Once your request is submitted, a Permit Resolution Specialist will review your situation and follow up by phone or email. We’ll assess potential issues, outline next steps, and guide you through the process to move forward efficiently.