Whatever Mike92104 does with this, there is a lesson here for all of us.
Non-permitted work, esp. if there is an abatement order outstanding, can seriously erode the value of a property. Beware of handyman projects, especially additions, that the owner/seller thinks have added to the value of the house. More likely it has subtracted value. Mike is talking here about an engineer, draftsman, contractors, etc., all costing money and time to fix the problem. The seller would have gained so much more by getting the work permitted in the first place. Then, when selling, he can say “all work permitted”, show the paperwork, and make it a selling point. The work would probably be better too.
One last point: when negotiating to buy such a property, add a clause stating seller must bring up to code. Let him or her research it to discover the high cost of compliance. They may not fix it all, but will have to accept a much lower price to sell it as is.
