What happens if an inspector finds unpermitted work?

An inspector who finds unpermitted electrical work typically requires a retroactive permit, inspection of the work, and correction of anything that fails. Fines vary from doubled permit fees to daily penalties, depending on the jurisdiction, and in the worst cases finished walls get opened for the inspection.

How it surfaces is usually mundane: a later permitted project, an insurance claim investigation, or a buyer's inspector during a sale.

The insurance angle is the sharp edge; a fire traced to unpermitted wiring gives the carrier a reason to fight the claim.

The fix is boring and effective: apply for the permit after the fact, get inspected, correct, and close it out. Legalizing usually costs less than the anxiety.

Before inviting the inspector back, check your numbers with the electrical calculation tool so the work passes on the first visit.