[MRM]

I make a very good living in construction litigation because of idiots who build things that don't meet code. Much of this was made possible because the construction permit process in the 80s and 90s was pretty lax. At least in Minnesota and Wisconsin it's much more rigorous. Cities could have saved their residents millions of dollars by being even minimally vigilant ten years ago.

With a permit goes some oversight to make sure the work is done to code and with a licensed contractor or tradesman. It also ensures your neighbors (and when they do their house, it ensures you) that there won't be some broken down eyesore devaluing their property. It's a pain in the rear, it's an impingement on your individual rights and liberties, and it's a good thing in the long run for everyone.