Buying a house with extensions built without permits.

[zerocool2009]

Council does not check what is actually built, they are just interested in having the tax/municipal account not lapse.

Building over the building line is not allowed without explicit approval, read the following: Building lines

If you complain to the building inspector long enough he/she may come out and check if everything has approval according to filed plan. Be warned this is a double edged sword your own property would first be scrutinized before the one you are complaining about.

Thanks for the reply ! The building inspector was waiting for the deeds office to process the "buy" ! As it took now 12 months to register !

I am all in the clear !

 

[rodga]

My body corporate or HOA.

They just say 'get the signed approval from your neighbors'... After that, they're happy.

Thats quite bad actually, a sticter HOA will make a better complex. They should insist on council approved plans before any construction.

Council will require the HOA approval when you submit plans.

 

[rietrot]

I wonder how in heavens name did the council approve that "buy" ! I would love to see the documents !

Neither the council, nor anyone else inspects the property. The bank do an electric valuation(they look at Google earth and other sale prices in the area.