Guide
Selling a house with open permits in Florida
An open permit is one that was issued but never closed out with a final inspection. It stays attached to the property record, and it often surfaces at the worst possible time: a few weeks before closing.
Why open permits matter in a sale
Buyers, lenders and title companies frequently search for open permits and code cases before closing. When they find one, they may ask for it to be closed first, ask for money held back at closing, or walk away. Insurers can also ask about unpermitted or unfinished work.
How to find out if your property has open permits
- Search the permit records of the city or county building department that has jurisdiction over the address.
- Check for open code enforcement cases, which are kept separately from permits.
- Or order a property check and we'll do both, plus recorded liens.
How open permits get closed
- Find out what's missing. Usually a final inspection, but sometimes paperwork, fees or a contractor sign-off.
- Reactivate or renew the permit if it has expired.
- Change the contractor if the original one is gone or won't finish.
- Pass the remaining inspections, fixing anything the inspector flags.
- Confirm the permit shows closed on the record and keep the documentation for the buyer.
Start before you list
Closing an old permit can take weeks, especially when inspections turn up corrections. Checking before you list gives you time to fix it on your schedule instead of the buyer's.
Free quote
Tell us what you're dealing with.
Send the violation notice, permit number or project details. We'll review it and come back with a plan and a quote.