Seller situation

Selling a house with open code violations

Open code violations do not always prevent a sale, but they must be understood and usually disclosed. Look up violations for the address, ask the municipality what must be fixed before transfer, and decide whether to fix them yourself or sell with them disclosed. Requirements differ by municipality.

Request a property review Discuss a possible sale

Look up the record

In Philadelphia, Atlas shows violations and permits for an address. In the suburbs, ask the borough or township.

Transfer requirements

Some municipalities require certifications or repairs before or after transfer. Ask yours.

Fix or disclose

Fixing can simplify a sale; selling with disclosure moves the work to the buyer.

Fines and liens

Unpaid fines may become liens that appear in a title search.

Selling with violations and a scheduled sale

If violations come with fines or a court case, or if a tax or sheriff sale is also scheduled, talk to a lawyer first. Our form does not pause any municipal or court process.

What to bring to a review

The violation notices, any correspondence with the municipality, contractor quotes and photos make a review more useful and more accurate.

Questions for the municipality
QuestionWhy it matters
Which violations are open?Scope of work
Must they be fixed before transfer?Timing
Are there fines or liens?Settlement costs
Can a buyer assume them?Sale options

Questions people ask

Can I sell with open violations?

Often, depending on local rules. Ask the municipality.

Will violations appear in a title search?

Liens from unpaid fines may.

Do you fix violations?

No. We discuss how they affect a sale.

Where do I look up Philadelphia violations?

Atlas.

Related pages

Request a property review

Step 1 of 2. Official help on this page never requires this form.

Bar has more than 25 years in real estate across Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, New Jersey and Delaware.

WorkWithBar is a private business. It is not a government agency, court, HUD- or PHFA-approved housing counselor or law firm, and it does not provide legal or credit-repair services. This intake does not establish a brokerage relationship. Any written proposal will disclose the buyer, their role, the terms and any compensation.

WorkWithBar is a private relationship and opportunity desk. It is not a lender, mortgage broker, broker-dealer, registered investment adviser, bank, law firm, or guarantee of funding, investment, or introductions.

Educational information only, not legal advice. Sources checked 2026-11-01; this page has not been reviewed by a lawyer. Programs, phone numbers and dates change — confirm with the official office. Questions: Jabbar@workwithBar.com.

Sources