Work done without a permit NJ is a common issue discovered during home inspections throughout South Jersey and across New Jersey. When you’re buying a home in South Jersey or anywhere in New Jersey, one issue that frequently comes up during a home inspection is construction work performed without the required permits. As professional home inspectors, we often find conditions where work was completed but no permit was obtained or documented. This can create safety concerns, legal issues, and complications during the sale process.
Understanding how permits work in New Jersey and what to do when work is discovered without a permit can protect your investment and help you avoid surprises before closing.
In New Jersey, most construction and renovation work is regulated under the Uniform Construction Code (NJAC 5:23), enforced by the New Jersey Department of Community Affairs (DCA).
According to Bulletin 06-1 – Work Done Without Permits, issued by the New Jersey Department of Community Affairs (DCA), construction officials are frequently unsure how to handle situations where previous homeowners completed work without obtaining the required Uniform Construction Code (UCC) permits. NJ.gov
This bulletin offers guidance for municipal code officials and inspectors when:
Work was done without a permit by a previous homeowner
A resale or reevaluation inspection reveals unpermitted work
A current homeowner needs to know how to proceed
The bulletin recommends that, in many cases, a Certificate of Continued Occupancy (CCO) inspection be performed so that the work can be documented and future owners aren’t held liable for historic violations. NJ.gov
In New Jersey, the Uniform Construction Code (UCC) sets the standard for when permits are required. The UCC (NJAC 5:23) is the statewide construction code that governs:
New construction
Structural alterations
Plumbing, electrical, mechanical, and HVAC work
Renovations that affect egress, load-bearing elements, or safety systems
Every municipality in New Jersey enforces the UCC through its local construction office. A construction permit ensures the proper review, inspections, and compliance with the code during and after a project. NJ.gov+1
👉 Read the full Uniform Construction Code (NJAC 5:23) on the NJ DCA website:
https://www.nj.gov/dca/codes/codreg/ucc.shtml NJ.gov
During home inspections, we often find these types of unpermitted work:
Removing a load-bearing wall, altering framing, or modifying a beam without a permit can compromise safety and structural integrity.
Additions, rerouting wiring, or installing new HVAC equipment typically require permits and inspections.
Adding or replacing plumbing fixtures or rerouting piping often triggers permitting requirements.
The fact that work exists doesn’t mean it was inspected for compliance. Documentation is key.
If your home inspector identifies work done without permits, here’s a step-by-step guide:
Request copies of all permits from the seller for any recent renovations or system upgrades.
Municipal construction officials can verify if permits were pulled and approved.
If work was done by a previous owner and no permits are found, your inspector and the local code official may recommend a Certificate of Continued Occupancy (CCO) inspection to document existing conditions. NJ.gov
If work was done without permits and should have been, the local enforcing agency may require the homeowner to pull the appropriate permits and have inspections performed.
Contractors and design professionals familiar with local codes and the UCC can help navigate permitting and compliance.
Failing to address unpermitted construction can lead to:
Safety hazards due to non-code construction
Difficulties with resale – lenders and buyers may request permits
Insurance denial if damage occurs in unpermitted areas
Municipal fines or required corrective action
Because permits protect your safety, liability, and property value, they should never be overlooked.
Here are two authoritative resources you can reference for permit requirements and code guidance:
🔗 NJ DCA Bulletin – Work Performed Without Permits
https://www.nj.gov/dca/codes/publications/pdf_bulletins/b_06_1.pdf NJ.gov
🔗 New Jersey Uniform Construction Code (NJAC 5:23)
https://www.nj.gov/dca/codes/codreg/ucc.shtml NJ.gov
Work done without a permit is a common issue discovered during home inspections, but it doesn’t have to derail a home purchase. Understanding what the Uniform Construction Code (UCC) requires and how municipal officials handle unpermitted work gives buyers clarity and confidence.
A thorough home inspection combined with proper follow-up on permits ensures you know what you’re buying and what needs to be addressed before closing.
