Many municipalites do not require a use and occupancy certificate for resale properties. I would first contact the code enforcement officer for the municipality where the home is located. Determine if a U&O certificate is requred and if proper permits and inspections were performed. If not, you and the seller, through your agents, should determine how to remedy the issue.

It is also likely that if proper permits where not acquired, the home improvement probably wasn't re-assessed for taxes. You could be liable for back taxes as well as any code violations if you purchase the home without resolution of these issues.

This is something you probably want to get resolved sooner rather than later..

Hope this helps. Best of luck to you.

Joe Sheehan, ABR, SRES
RE/MAX Professional Realty, Inc.
Exton, PA

Here in Bucks and Montgomery counties, Certificates of Occupancy are generally required to be done by the seller. You are responsible for the normal inspection, but they are responsible for the CO. Ask your agent who's responsibility it is for a CO up in your area. In fact, I'll get with some contacts and ask them and get back to you.

Terrence Charest, e-Pro

How much time do you have to reply to inspections? I usually put 15 days after the contract is fully executed....you may not have an out at this point, unless it's part of the contract that all permits are in place.

You should have your agent's broker advise you, or, chances are, he/she may suggest you contact a real estate attorney at this point.