St. Louis Real Estate re-occupancy permit program - more revenue. (cont)

The 64 dollar question is, will buyers use this report instead of a building inspection by a qualified ASHI inspector? That could be dangerous, I don’t think you can sue the government for negligence! And what are the qualifications of the county inspectors?

As previously mentioned, beginning July 1st, 2007, all unincorporated St. Louis County will require new occupants a of single family home, duplex, or condo to obtain a residential re-occupancy permit.

If your planning on selling your home please check out this list of things that the inspectors will be looking for by following these links;

http://www.stlouisco.com/epermit/InspectionDetail.pdf (the short list)

http://www.stlouisco.com/epermit/PPTVIEW.pdf (the long list with pictures)

http://www.stlouisco.com/epermit/InspectionChecklist.pdf (the checklist)

Be sure to read this;
http://www.stlouisco.com/epermit/OccupiedUnitInspections0702.pdf (the rules for preparing for the inspection)

If your planning on buying a home be sure to have your Realtor explain paragraph 11 of the St. Louis Board of Realtors Sale Contract.

FAQ’s from the St. Louis County web site.

How do I get a residential inspection?
By applying online or picking up an application at our North or South offices.

When do I apply?
Any changes in residence by selling, buying, or renting property in a conservation district; renting in all unincorporated county and adding the number of occupants.

Is my property in a conservation district?
Please visit webpage http://www.stlouisco.com/plan/PCD/pcdmap.htmlto find out.

Who can apply?
Buyer, seller, property owner, tenant, or agent.

What is the cost?
Multi family dwelling (apartment) $40.00, one and two family dwelling (house or duplex) $80.00.

Who pays for the inspection and/or permit?
Buyer, seller, property owner or tenant may pay for the inspection.

Do I have to pay additional cost for each inspection?
Two inspections are included in the cost. If a third inspection is needed, an additional cost is incurred.

Do I call for an appointment or do you call me?
You can schedule a morning appointment if you apply in person. The inspector will call you to schedule other appointments within 24 to 48 hours.

How long is the inspection good for?
You have 90 days after the first inspection to correct any violations and to supply the names of occupants to the clerk.

Do I have to be there?
No, as long as there is someone to let the inspector into the premises or a lock box or other means for the inspector to enter. If the house/apartment is occupied, the inspector must be escorted.

How does the inspection process work?
An appointment is scheduled within 24 to 48 hours to inspect the property after an application has been properly filled out and the fee paid.

What happens when the first inspection does not pass?
The applicant has 90 days to correct all violations if the house/apartment is vacant. If the house/apartment is occupied, all violations must be corrected within two weeks. When all violations have been corrected, the applicant calls to make an appointment for a second inspection.

When do I get the permit?
When the inspector turns in his results, the permit is printed the next day provided the names of the occupants are given.

Will the permit be mailed or do I have to pick it up?
Permits will be mailed unless specified by occupant or owner to hold for pick up. Permits will only be held for one week for pick up, then they will be mailed.