Whether it’s a flip, a fixer-upper, or a luxury remodel, renovations are a big part of North Carolina’s real estate market. But here’s the deal—not all renovations are created equal in the eyes of the law.

As a licensed broker, it’s your responsibility to understand when permits are required, what risks unpermitted work can pose, and how to guide your clients ethically and legally when this issue comes up in a transaction.

In real estate, what you disclose—and when—can protect your license, your reputation, and your client’s best interests. Disclosing material facts isn’t optional. It’s a legal requirement in North Carolina and an ethical mandate under the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) Code of Ethics.