THE PERMIT EXPERT

After-the-fact permit help for unpermitted work.

An addition, conversion, or renovation is already in place, but the permit paperwork is missing or incomplete. We help organize the existing conditions, local requirements, and professionals needed to work out the next steps.

Tell us about your project

Who this service is for

Start here if you need help understanding the permit path for existing work. Tell us what was built, what records you have, and what the reviewing department has requested.

  • Additions, garage conversions, and interior renovations with missing permit records
  • A property purchase or sale that uncovers questions about completed work
  • A notice identifying construction performed without required permits
  • Existing work that needs drawings, professional input, or inspection coordination

Start with the records and the actual conditions

We begin by organizing the property address, available permit history, notices, photos, and a description of completed work. We identify questions for the relevant department and discuss whether measurements, additional records, or professional evaluation are needed. A missing document does not tell the whole story; the project needs to be understood before its scope is priced.

What we can coordinate

Your written proposal defines the tasks included and who is responsible for each part.

  • Permit-history research and communication with the reviewing department
  • Field information, measurements, and existing-condition documentation
  • Architect or engineer sourcing and coordination where required
  • Application preparation and coordination of the agreed submission package
  • Review-comment tracking, document revisions, and inspection follow-up

Covered work needs its own discussion

If work is hidden behind walls, ceilings, or finishes, tell us what photographs, drawings, and inspection records are available. We coordinate questions about what evidence or access the department and responsible professional need. We do not promise that photos or a letter will be accepted instead of required inspection or verification.

A clear scope before you commit

Our coordination fee is defined after reviewing the location and problem. The proposal identifies included services and any separate professional, survey, government, inspection, or construction costs. Approval, required corrections, and review timing depend on the project and the applicable authority. An application alone is not a guarantee of approval or resolution of an enforcement case.

What to send our team

Send the property address and the complete notice or written request, if you have one. Include the following so we can discuss a useful next step:

  • Photos showing the overall project and the area of concern
  • Existing drawings, surveys, permits, and inspection results
  • A short description of what was built and approximately when
  • Permit or violation number and any hearing or response deadline
  • Contact details for professionals already involved

Plans, construction, and representation

Architectural and engineering work is coordinated with appropriately licensed professionals where required. Construction and corrective work are separately scoped with the appropriate contractor. Legal representation or advice about a hearing is separate from permit coordination.

Prepare for the first conversation

Use our permit-help document checklist to organize your files. If you received a notice, see our violation coordination service.

Requirements are local. For example, Pinellas County publishes specific after-the-fact storm-permitting guidance; its storm program is not a general rule for every property or jurisdiction.

Questions owners ask