Land records · Parcel maps · October 6, 2026
How to Check a Property for Code Violations
How to check a property for code violations: search code enforcement and permit portals, request records, check for open permits, and look for liens.
How to check a property for code violations involves a few local records searches. Cities and counties track violations through code enforcement departments and building departments, and many offer online portals where you can search by address for open cases, past violations, and open or expired permits. You can also request records under public records laws, check the land records for code enforcement liens, and ask the seller directly. Unresolved violations can carry fines, block permits, or become liens. This page is general land-records background, not legal advice.
Where violations are tracked
| Office | What it tracks |
|---|---|
| Code enforcement | Property maintenance, junk vehicles, overgrowth, nuisances |
| Building department | Unpermitted work, unsafe structures, open permits |
| Zoning department | Illegal uses, setbacks, signs, short-term rentals |
| Fire marshal | Fire code issues, especially multifamily and commercial |
| Health department | Septic, wells, sanitation |
Online searches
Many jurisdictions have permit and code portals searchable by address or parcel number. Look for:
- Open code enforcement cases.
- Notices of violation and hearing dates.
- Permits that were never finaled or expired.
- Stop-work orders.
See how to find building permits for a property.
Public records requests
If records are not online, submit a public records request to the code enforcement or building department. Ask for all violation cases, inspections, and permits for the address. Response times vary.
Liens in the land records
Unpaid fines, abatement costs, or demolition charges may be recorded as code enforcement liens. Search the county recorder’s index by owner name or parcel. See what is a code enforcement lien and how to find liens on a property.
Open and expired permits
An open permit means work was started but not inspected and approved. A new owner may need to close it, which can mean opening walls for inspection or hiring the original contractor. Sellers can often resolve this before closing.
Unpermitted work
Additions, finished basements, decks, and garage conversions done without permits may not show in records at all. Compare the property record card and listing with permit history. Large differences in square footage or bedroom count can signal unpermitted work.
Zoning issues
Uses that violate zoning, like an illegal second unit, may not appear as a violation until someone complains. Check the zoning and permitted uses. See how to find zoning of a property.
Questions for the seller
Ask about known violations, notices, permits, and work done without permits. Many states require disclosure of known violations. Get answers in writing.
Bottom line
To check a property for code violations, search the local code enforcement and permit portals, request records, look for open or expired permits, and search the land records for code enforcement liens. Compare permits with the home’s features to spot unpermitted work. Find county and city offices via the Platbookmapper map.
How to check a property for code violations FAQ
How do I look up code violations on a property?
Search the city or county code enforcement or permit portal by address, or file a records request.
Do code violations transfer to a new owner?
Often the property condition remains the new owner’s responsibility, and liens may attach to the property.
What is an open permit?
A permit for work that was never finally inspected and approved.
Can code fines become a lien?
Yes, many jurisdictions record unpaid fines or abatement costs as liens.
How can I tell if work was done without a permit?
Compare permit history with the home’s features and square footage.