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View Full Version : Seller disclosed some w/o permit items but didn't disclose an Compliance Order


Caryli
Aug 7, 2009, 11:41 AM
Home purchased: May2009

3 weeks ago, city inspector was at my door with an MARCH Inspection Report (signed by old owner) & Compliance order with violations:
1) converted garage w/bathroom & support members removed w/o permit
2) Patio cover in setback area
3) door added at back of garage
4) window changed to glass door w/o permit
5) patio cover w/ electrical w/o permit

Seller's disclosure:
Alterations/additions w/o permit/ not in compliance w/ code checked YES (listed items: garage conversion, patio cover, 2 storage)
Violations of setback NO
Notices of abatement/citations NO

I had plans to get permit for the property but I wasn't aware that the house had a compliance order and the extra violations issue with electrical/setback/door. This will force me to spend 30k to order to fix all violations with LIMITed time. I don't have the budget all at once. I brought the house not expecting that I would be obligated to make a 30k+ fix right away. What can I do? Feel cheated on pricing. Is there any legal action I can take? Very stressful with budgeting issue right now.. :mad:

JudyKayTee
Aug 7, 2009, 12:30 PM
I certainly would discuss this with an Attorney for two reasons.

It would "appear" that the seller disclosed substantial information.

Your closing Attorney should have checked to make sure the property was in compliance - at least the Attorneys in my area do.

What would it take for this to be made right in your eyes? (What relief are you asking?)

Caryli
Aug 7, 2009, 03:18 PM
I am wondering if I can file a case against seller for partial 'failed to disclose' issue.
I know that there are parts of the house that was without permit, and I plan to get those permits in and set things right.
I always thought those would be on my on budget schedule, save money for a few months, fix this, save money for a few more months, fix that.

I was unaware that the city had an compliance order on the house due to a previous inspection with the old owner.
I am also unaware that there were more things about the house that was w/o permit.
Now, I have a compliance order on house, states that everythings must be fixed and permitted with a due date.

If I knew the house came with a compliance order from the city, I would not have brought it for the price.
Its one thing that I plan to upgrade my house when I saved enough money. Its another thing that I have to pay 30k upfront to fix the house due to compliance.
Frankly, I just don't have the money.

I think if the owner had disclosed all of the details, the price of the house would be lowered. Can't I get some money back for fixing the house into compliances because the owner failed to disclose the information?

JudyKayTee
Aug 7, 2009, 05:31 PM
Yes, if he did not disclose info which he was required to disclose, you have an action against him.