The Importance of Requesting an OPRA (Not Winfrey)
When it comes to upgrading or updating your home, securing the necessary permits is a step that many homeowners overlook or underestimate. While skipping this process may seem like a way to save time or money in the short term, the potential long-term consequences can far outweigh any perceived convenience. Here’s why getting permits and using an OPRA (Open Public Records Act) request to access public records is crucial for both homeowners and home sellers.
The Role of OPRA in Home Projects
An OPRA request allows homeowners and potential buyers to access municipal records related to a property. For homeowners, this means you can verify that all permits for past upgrades have been properly closed and paid for. If you haven’t paid the required permit fees for completed work, you may face unexpected fines or forced updates down the line. By staying proactive and paying for the OPRA request, you’re ensuring that your home’s records are up to date—providing peace of mind for yourself and future buyers.
Why Permits Matter
Permits are more than just bureaucratic red tape; they are a way to ensure that any modifications to your property comply with local building codes and safety standards. Whether you’re remodeling a kitchen, finishing a basement, or making structural changes, such as plumbing, electrical, fencing, windows, HVAC, additions, roofing, or grading, having the proper permits protects your investment and ensures that the work is done right.
Building codes, such as those outlined in the BOCA (Building Officials and Code Administrators) standards, are updated periodically to reflect new safety requirements and construction practices. If you complete work without a permit and fail to pay the associated fees, you risk finding yourself out of compliance with updated codes later on. This could mean costly retrofitting or even tearing out completed work just to bring it up to current standards.
Sellers: Avoid Surprises at Closing
For those planning to sell their home, ensuring all permits are in order can prevent delays or complications during the sale process. Many buyers, through their real estate agent or attorney, will request an OPRA report to review the property’s history. Any discrepancies, such as unpaid permits or unpermitted work, could lead to negotiations falling apart or buyers demanding remediation before closing.
By addressing these issues before listing your property, you’ll save yourself and potential buyers significant hassle. A clean record of permits also demonstrates that you’ve maintained your home responsibly, which can increase buyer confidence and potentially boost your home’s value.
Buyers Beware: Do Your Homework
As a homebuyer, you have the right to know exactly what you’re purchasing. Requesting an OPRA report before submitting an offer is a smart way to uncover the property’s history. This report can reveal whether major updates—such as additions, roof replacements, or electrical work—were done with the proper permits and inspections.
If the report shows unpermitted work, it could indicate potential issues, such as substandard construction or the need for future upgrades to meet current codes. Armed with this information, you can make an informed decision about whether to proceed with the purchase, negotiate repairs or credits, or walk away entirely.
The Bottom Line
Obtaining permits and paying for an OPRA request are essential steps for anyone making updates to their home. Not only do they ensure compliance with local building codes, but they also protect your investment, prevent costly surprises, and provide valuable transparency for buyers and sellers alike. By taking these proactive measures, you’ll safeguard your home’s value and enjoy peace of mind for years to come.
Harrison Township OPRA Request Form: https://harrisontwp.us/department/construction/
