I recently purchased a home that was converted from a carport to a living space. I received a code violation notice and now I either need to bring it up to code or turn it back into a carport. I would like to keep my living space. The city said I would need to hire an engineer and submit plans. Can you please tell me the most cost effective way to keep my living space???? Thanks
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Typically, converting a carport to a living area violates many building codes and ordinances unless major changes are made. Carports usually have no foundation – they are essentially patios with roofs. The next best step for you, then – as the city said- is to hire an engineer to evaluate the structure, determine what’s needed to bring it up to code, and take things from there. I would also address the home inspector. Presuming you had a home inspector involved in the transaction, this type of substandard construction should have come up during your the inspection. I would also talk with an attorney to determine whether you have cause of action against the home's prior owners, as well. The fact that a homeowner is able to sell a house doesn’t mean they're not responsible for disclosing anything that's not to code.
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