I'm scratching my head on the necessity of a permit. Let's say your compressor dies and you need to replace it. Is a permit needed? Let's go one step further. You blow your 50 amp fuses to the HVAC.... is a permit needed?
Repairs to existing systems,
which do not affect life and safety, will not illicit the requirement for a permit.
I'm sorry. I love to have a safe, well constructed house. However, I know for a fact that the city bozos know far less than the experts we generally hire to replace our outdated systems.
The key word in that statement is,"replace," and that will illicit the requirement for a permit.
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The home inspector said it wasn't a big deal;
This is why you should always ask for a copy of all permits issued to the address.
There also rules of disclosure for realtors which creates responsibility.
I could not be held responsible nor get in any sort of trouble nor incur a fine, if it wasn't installed up to code before I bought the house.
Probably not directly, however, how much $ are you willing to give away, to a prospective buyer who asks for permits, in a negotiated sale, the cost of a city inspection, subsequent permit, possible corrective repairs?
Or taking it off the market and listing it a again as an as listing?
Your inspector did you a disservice, because he had nothing to lose.
Who hired him, or recommended him, may give some incite to the depth of the corruption.
How much responsibility does the installer "XYZ Co." have, if it wasn't installed up to code?
Each state has prescribed contractor warranties and if this discovery falls within that time frame or if they are a local business, can have an influence.
Also an agressive city attny can as well.