Buying a home in Washougal can move fast, and the permit history can make or break your confidence. You want to know what was built, that it was inspected, and that you won’t inherit costly fixes after closing. This guide explains how permits and as‑built records work here, where to find them, and what to ask for before you remove contingencies. Let’s dive in.
Why permits and as‑builts matter in Washougal
Permits and approved inspections create a public record that work met code at the time of construction. Final approval is what lenders, insurers, and future buyers expect to see because it signals the project is complete and legally recognized. As‑built drawings document what was actually built, including changes in the field, so you know where systems and structures are located. When you can verify these records, you make better decisions and avoid surprises.
City or County: know your jurisdiction
Washougal buyers need to confirm who handled the permits. If the home sits inside city limits, the City of Washougal manages permits and inspections. Start with the city’s building and permitting overview to understand processes and how to request files. For homes in unincorporated areas nearby, Clark County holds the records. Use the County’s Property Information Center to look up permits, view documents, and download available files.
- City permitting overview: City of Washougal Building Application Information
- County research portal: Clark County Property Research and Records
What documents buyers should expect
Common permits to look for
Ask for permits and final sign‑offs for new construction, additions, conversions to living space, ADUs, major remodels, decks, and structural changes. Plumbing, mechanical, and HVAC permits should also show final approvals. Electrical work in Washington may be permitted and inspected through the state, so confirm electrical compliance when you review records.
As‑built drawings and septic records
Septic properties are common outside city centers. Request the septic permit, as‑built drawing that shows the tank and drainfield, and recent inspection or operation reports. Many septic records are available through Clark County Public Health’s septic systems page.
Final approval and occupancy
Look for a “finaled” status or final inspection record for each permit. In many single‑family cases, a final building permit serves the same role as a certificate of occupancy. If the record shows outstanding inspections, ask the seller for proof of completion before you move forward.
Special areas: shorelines and floodplains
Waterfront and river‑adjacent parcels around the Columbia River, Washougal River, and Gibbons Creek can carry extra rules. The city is updating its Shoreline Master Program, which affects setbacks, uses, and exemptions for maintenance and repair. Review the latest guidance on the City of Washougal Shoreline Master Program Update, and check FEMA flood maps to understand insurance and building standards that may apply to the property.
Risks of unpermitted work
Unpermitted work can present safety issues and may not meet structural, fire, or plumbing code standards. It can also impact your insurance coverage and loan approval if living area or improvements are not documented. Bringing work into compliance can require opening walls, upgrades to current code, and added fees. Clark County emphasizes the importance of permits and encourages owners to resolve unpermitted work; review the county’s guidance on building permits for expectations and process.
Your Washougal due‑diligence plan
- Ask for records early.
- Request copies of permits, final inspection sign‑offs, and any as‑built drawings from the seller and listing agent. Washington’s seller disclosure law gives you the right to review; see RCW 64.06.
- Verify the permitting authority.
- If inside city limits, start with the City of Washougal Building Application Information. For unincorporated parcels, search the Clark County Property Research and Records portal.
- Pull public records.
- If online files are incomplete, submit a City of Washougal Public Records Request or contact the County to request archived permits, plans, and final inspections.
- Confirm septic and specialist inspections.
- If on septic, obtain the permit, as‑built, and recent inspection records via Clark County Public Health. During your contingency period, order a general home inspection and bring in trade specialists as needed.
- Check contractor credentials.
- If you see recent remodeling, verify the contractor’s registration, bond, and insurance using Washington L&I’s Verify a Contractor tool.
- Evaluate risk and next steps.
- If work appears unpermitted, consult your lender and insurer about coverage and financing. Ask for estimates to legalize the work and consider negotiating repairs or escrow holdbacks. Use county guidance on building permits to understand what it may take to comply.
- Assess shoreline or floodplain status.
- For river‑adjacent properties, review the City Shoreline Master Program Update and the FEMA flood maps before removing contingencies.
Quick buyer checklist
- Identify the permitting authority: City of Washougal or Clark County.
- Collect permits, final inspections, and any as‑built drawings from the seller.
- Search public portals and request archived files if needed.
- Confirm septic permit, as‑built, and recent inspections if applicable.
- Order a home inspection and trade specialists as needed.
- Verify contractor registration for recent work.
- Review shoreline and floodplain status for river‑adjacent parcels.
- Coordinate with your lender and insurer if issues arise.
Ready to move forward?
You deserve clarity and confidence before you close. If you want a local, step‑by‑step approach to permits and as‑builts tailored to your Washougal home search, reach out to LeAnne Moore for guidance and a plan that protects your goals.
FAQs
What is an as‑built drawing and why does it matter in Washougal?
- An as‑built shows the final, constructed condition of a project so you know exactly what was built and where systems are located, which helps with maintenance, renovations, and insurance.
How do you check permits for a Washougal home inside city limits?
- Start with the city’s permitting overview and request records or submit a public records request if files are not online: City of Washougal Building Application Information and Public Records Request.
What should you do if a home shows unpermitted work?
- Talk with your lender and insurer, get estimates to bring work into compliance, and negotiate repairs or credits; review county expectations on building permits.
How do shorelines or floodplains affect a Washougal home purchase?
- Shoreline rules and flood maps can change setbacks, approvals, and insurance needs, so review the city’s Shoreline Master Program Update and FEMA flood maps early in your due diligence.
