My Seller can't find their ADU permit. How should I list the property?
Apr 16, 2025
This can be a tough problem to have, but you can get out your sleuthing toolbox and see what you can find! Tracking down the actual permit is the action that you need to take - it isn't in your seller's best interest to list the property without that proof.
1. First, the path of least resistance is to pay a visit to your local planning / building permit office. On the one hand, that, in theory, is the fastest way to get the actual information you need - the permit. However, current building departments are overwhelmed and depending on the jurisdiction, this could take a few weeks. If you don't have a few weeks, you can put in your request and do more digging...
2. Are these records available online? Some cities and counties have a robust online records system. Other areas...well...you might be better off submitting your request using the pony express. Look for your area's GIS system and look at the layers to see if there is an data overlay for permit info.
3. The third place to look is your records department. You may have to do a public records request. It is helpful to have the parcel number, address, owner name, and possibly even an approximate timeframe. Again, this might take a few weeks.
4. A fourth place is actually to see if you can find any information using the Assessor site. Sometimes, when there is a valuation change due to a large improvement, there is a record of this being done and a permit number.
5. I am assuming by this question that the seller was the one who added the ADU. If they don't have their building records, do they remember who the contractor was? They may have the records, even if it was more than a decade ago.
There are plenty of ways to find out more information on the permit. Just make sure you give yourself enough time to work with busy building and records departments. We absolutely recommend including the permit information as part of the listing information if it proves it is a legal ADU.
Happy sleuthing!
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