Q&A: Money is tight. Can we build an in-law unit without permits?

Tags: Gay Video & Lesbian Movies, Logo: Fierce TV

LogoTV viewer asks Hermanity:

Question: We want to build an in-law unit, but money is tight. Should we just use a handyman and bypass permits?
Answer: Handyman for dinky jobs is fine, but doing a major project without permits will come back to bite you. You can get sued, fined or be forced to tear it down. Plus, it can affect your re-sale value too. 

Did any viewers out there ever get in trouble for a big renovation without pulling permits? Would love to hear your story!