Already contacted by the city?
Do not start by guessing at the fix. Start by identifying the exact issue: what work is being questioned, what records exist, and what drawings or documentation the city is requesting. That information determines the next move.
This guide is for situations like these
The city or county contacted you about work that may have been done without permits.
You were asked to provide drawings, a site plan, or documentation for an existing addition.
A previous owner enclosed a carport, patio, garage, or added livable space and the permit history is unclear.
You are trying to remodel or sell the property and existing work is creating permit or documentation questions.
A practical order of operations
Every jurisdiction handles existing work a little differently, but most situations start with the same basic questions: what was built, when was it built, was a permit ever issued, and what does the city need before it can review or inspect the work?
Collect the notice or correction
Save anything the city provided, including correction letters, case numbers, permit comments, inspection notes, or emails from staff.
Search for permit history
Many jurisdictions have online permit search tools. Search by address, parcel number, or owner name when available, and save any records you find.
Document what exists now
As-built drawings can show the current layout, dimensions, openings, and affected areas before deciding what permit drawings may be needed.
Identify what the city is asking for
The request may involve floor plans, site plans, structural clarification, electrical/mechanical notes, life-safety items, or zoning information.
What the city may ask for
The exact request depends on the project and jurisdiction. A small patio enclosure is different from a room addition, garage conversion, or structural remodel. Still, these are common items that come up when existing work needs to be documented.
- Existing floor plan or as-built drawings
- Site plan showing the structure, setbacks, and property lines
- Scope of work describing what was added or changed
- Structural information for roofs, headers, bearing walls, or foundations
- Electrical, mechanical, plumbing, smoke alarm, or energy-code clarification where applicable
- Photos, inspection access, or contractor/engineer input depending on the condition
Why as-built drawings are often the first step
Many existing-work situations start with as-built drawings. They help show what is actually there now, including room layout, dimensions, openings, and affected areas. If permit drawings are needed, the as-built can become the base for that plan set.
When an engineer may be needed
If the city is asking about structural items — such as roof framing, headers, bearing walls, foundations, or unusual field conditions — an engineer may need to review or design those portions. A clear plan set helps identify where that specialty input belongs.
Can you just submit photos?
Sometimes photos help, but photos usually do not replace drawings when the city needs to understand dimensions, room use, wall locations, setbacks, or construction scope. If the issue involves added square footage, enclosed space, structural work, or a permit correction, drawings are often the clearer way to explain the condition.
Need help with an unpermitted addition or existing-work issue?
Residential Design can help with as-built drawings, permit-plan support, and residential remodel documentation for Arizona projects. If you already received a notice, correction, or city request, send the address, jurisdiction, and any documents you received.