Do you check public record data bases?

Originally Posted By: Greg Fretwell
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When you do an inspection do you look for building permits before you go? These days they are usually on the tax assessor’s web site and may be a wealth of information when you are inspecting.


I would think the information on these web sites might be a nice addition to your report without really working that hard.


Originally Posted By: Blaine Wiley
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Although it is NOT part of the inspection to determine whether any work was completed according to any governmental regulation, be they codes, ordinances or permits, I check the county records after the inspection just to verify the age of the house, and see if anything has been added later, like the pool, garage, etc. Having them online makes life easier.


Originally Posted By: sbyrnes
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Before I go to an inspection I check out the county pages for permits pulled on the house. I like to get as much info as I can before I go to the house. I use it strictly as a reference, just like if I get any info from the disclosure.


I’ve seen houses built in the early 60’s that have not had a permit pulled any time during it’s life and gone to the house and found new A/C, water heater and roof.


I also have found that you can’t always rely on the county pages. I did an inspection and found an “open” permit on the roof. The seller called the county bldg and they told him the permit was “finaled.” The info just never made it to the web site.



All Corners Home Inspections, Inc


Serving Pasco, Hernando, N. Pinellas & N. Hillsborough counties