Open Permits on a San Jose Home: What to Do in 2025

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Quick Answer: Open permits on a San Jose home mean permitted work was started but never received a final inspection. You must close them by completing the required inspections or by obtaining a retroactive permit for unpermitted work. Sellers must disclose open permits; buyers inherit them. Closing a permit typically costs $500–$5,000 depending on complexity.

Open Permits on a San Jose Home: Complete Guide 2025

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Open permits are one of the most common complications in San Jose real estate transactions. Whether you’re selling, buying, or refinancing, here’s everything you need to know about open permits and how to resolve them.

What Is an Open Permit?

An open permit (also called a “red tag” or “expired permit”) means someone pulled a building permit for work on the property, but the project was never finaled — meaning the required inspections were never completed and the permit was never officially closed. Common causes: the homeowner or contractor completed the work without calling for final inspection, the work failed inspection and was never corrected, or the permit expired (permits expire after 180 days of inactivity in San Jose).

How to Check for Open Permits in San Jose

Search San Jose’s Development Services Portal (DSP) at sjpermits.org — enter the property address
Request a permit history from San Jose Building Division: (408) 535-3555
During escrow, your title company should flag open permits in the title report

How to Close an Open Permit

If work was properly completed: Schedule a final inspection through sjpermits.org. Inspector visits the site, approves the work, and closes the permit. Cost: $0–$500 for inspection fees.
If work failed inspection: Correct the deficiency, then reschedule inspection. May require opening walls to expose previously buried work.
If permit expired: Renew the expired permit ($200–$500 fee), then complete required inspections.
If work was done without permit (retroactive permit): Apply for a retroactive “as-built” permit. Inspector may require destructive inspection (opening walls) to verify work. Cost: $500–$5,000+ depending on scope.

Buyers: Your Rights and Risks with Open Permits

In California, sellers must disclose known open permits. As a buyer, you inherit any open permits on the property you purchase. Before closing escrow, negotiate for the seller to close all open permits — or negotiate a price reduction reflecting the cost and hassle of resolving them. Never purchase a property with unresolved permit issues without understanding exactly what’s needed to close them.

Quartz Construction has extensive experience legalizing unpermitted work and closing open permits in San Jose. If you’ve purchased a home with open permits or unpermitted additions, call (650) 749-7436. CSLB #1003436 | BBB A+.

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 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We’re so happy with the work Hila and her team did on our home addition. The new space flows beautifully with the existing structure, and the quality is clear in every finish. Finished on schedule and stress-free.
  
 
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 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Working with Ohad on our full home remodel was an incredible experience. He helped us through every decision and made sure everything turned out exactly how we envisioned. The team was easy to communicate with and super detail-focused. We still can’t believe how beautiful our home looks!
  
 
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 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We recently worked with Quartz Construction (Owner: Ohad) for a construction project to remodel our Bathroom
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They maintained clear communication throughout the project, kept us informed of progress and any potential changes, and delivered everything on time and within budget. Their quality of work is outstanding — every detail was handled with care and precision.

What stood out most was their commitment to customer satisfaction. They were responsive to our questions, respectful of our space, and ensured that the final outcome matched our vision perfectly.

If you're looking for a reliable, skilled, and trustworthy construction contractor, I wholeheartedly recommend Quartz Construction ( Ohad and his team) .They exceeded our expectations in every way.

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 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I had a fantastic experience working with Quartz Construction And Remodeling. Ohad Maloul the owner was professional communicative and a pleasure to work with from start to finish. His team repaired and painted my backyard pergola and the quality of their work was truly excellent. They were always on time, friendly and responsive to any questions I had throughout the process. I appreciated the clear communication and attention to detail. I’m excited to work with Ohad and his team on future projects and highly recommend them to anyone looking for reliable, high-quality construction or remodeling services.
  
 
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   Harry Lewis 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Hila managed our balcony addition project with care and precision. The design complements our home perfectly, and the build quality is outstanding. She communicated every step and made the whole process easy. We’re thrilled with the result!
  
 
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 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I had the chance to work with Ohad and his construction team on a recent home project, and I was really impressed. Ohad is professional, easy to communicate with, and genuinely cares about the quality of the work. The crew showed up on time, kept the work area clean, and finished the job on schedule. It’s hard to find contractors who are reliable and transparent these days, but Ohad delivered on everything he promised. Would definitely recommend if you’re looking for someone who takes pride in their work and keeps things straightforward.
  
 
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 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We’re so happy with the work Quartz Construction did on our backyard. Ohad’s team designed and built a gorgeous deck and patio that turned the area into a dream space. The quality and detail are fantastic. Highly recommend!
  
 
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 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Quartz Construction built the most beautiful pergola in our backyard, thanks to Ohad. He was easy to work with, listened to our needs, and delivered a structure that’s both stylish and durable. We now have a shaded space where we can relax and entertain guests.
  
 
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 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. They built a beautiful, durable pergola that fits our outdoor space perfectly. Hila paid close attention to both style and quality. We now have the perfect spot for lounging, gatherings, and enjoying every season.
  
 
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   Paul Wilins 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We feel incredibly lucky to have worked with Hila. She made the ADU process simple and stress-free, handling everything with care and professionalism. The final space is perfect—efficient, elegant, and exactly what we hoped for. Big thanks to her and the whole crew!
  
 
  
  
 
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