[digerata]

You don't need to obtain a permit to upgrade your countertops.

I believe the only time that an upgrade could possibly increase the taxable value of your house is if the township/county knows about it (I.e., you got a permit to install it).

I also live in Michigan, but haven't researched renewable energy sources vs taxable value. I'm surprised to hear the gp say they had an increase.

[_delirium]

It varies by state, but in Texas at least, major (>$5,000) improvements to a property are supposed to be reported. You could just not report it, but that's technically illegal. Also, one thing that makes reporting compliance relatively high is that there's a separate registration requirement (for different reasons) on the construction contractor's side: contractors undertaking home-improvement projects of >$5,000 are required to use a specific type of escrow account to hold the money temporarily, in order to resolve any disputes that might arise. There are contractors who will take your payment in cash and not register an escrow account, but reputable contractors won't risk that. And if you go that route, you aren't protected against what the escrow account is designed to protect against, that the contractor does shoddy (or no) work and just walks away with your cash. So people tend to do that only if they're having the work done by friends/family.

[marincounty]

It's really tricky. Replace the counter top--fine. Move the sink a few inches you're suppose to get a permit. A new electrical outlet--a permit. Solar system--permit. I can only think of a few things that don't require a permit--a fence maybe?

Always claim you just replaced the switch. Just replaced the plumbing. Even then they can make your life miserable if they want. (I can go into most people homes and find multiple code violations--some homes just a few years old.)

These towns are trying to make money. In my town, if you take a few pictures and sell them on eBay, or elsewhere the town wants a fee from you--guess what, you're a Professional Photographer.

My point is these counties/towns are drunk with power, and preventing homeowners from upgrading their homes. They are looking for every dime they can extract from you. A simple electrical switch in you house will require an Inspector in you home at least two times.

If you feel an inspector is picking on you; pull your video camera out and tape every move they make.(Keep the evidence if needed in a lawsuit.)

A building inspector can walk into your home without a warrant at any time. That needs to change, along with enacting all these petty laws most people don't even know they are breaking. Stop passing their bonds, bonds, bonds, bonds, until they stop harassing us.

(It's up to an inspector if they feel the improvements added to the value of your home in the counties I have worked in. Try arguing with some guy who just just looks up codes, and given way too much authority.)

[JoeAltmaier]

Pretty short-sighted. You know its all about keeping con men from cheating you by installing substandard or dangerous plumbing/electric etc? Those inspectors are not just out to make your life miserable. They're trying to keep your house, and the neighbors house, from burning down.