Is a contractor penalized if he does a job wihout a building permit? Or is the homeowner penalized?

Question

Is a contractor penalized if he does a job wihout a building permit? Or is the homeowner penalized?

Answer 1

both

Answer 2

Depends on the local laws but, in most locations with which I have dealt, the homeowner is ultimately responsible for obtaining a permit. That's not to say that they won't come down on a contractor also, but the homeowner, as the owner of the property, is always responsible for making sure that what is done on his property is legal.

Answer 3

Typically the home owner gets the permit unless it's in your contract with your contractor for him to pick it up.  Unfortunately it's your home and ultimately you will be held responsible.

Answer 4

well ,the contractor get a stop work order,and can be fined if he continues to work,and your house doesn't get  built so you suffer,but i doubt you get fined.............tom