How As-Builts Can Help Resolve Violations (and Prevent New Ones)
- Serina Calhoun
- Nov 10
- 2 min read
In San Francisco, building violations are a fact of life. Between decades-old renovations, unclear (especially hard copy) records, and frequent code updates, it’s common for a property to have discrepancies between what’s on file and what actually exists on-site.
That’s where as-builts come in.
An as-built drawing documents a property exactly as it stands today, not what was planned years ago or assumed on old permit plans. These updated drawings can be the difference between a straightforward violation clearance and a months-long headache.
When a violation notice lands, owners often scramble to figure out what’s changed over time. Maybe a prior owner added a non-permitted kitchen, or a contractor made small field adjustments that were never reflected in city records. With current as-builts, you can give the Department of Building Inspection (DBI) or Planning a clear, accurate picture of the property, making it far easier to demonstrate compliance and move forward.
Even better, keeping updated as-builts on hand can prevent new violations from happening. When you start a remodel, accurate drawings mean your architects, engineers, and contractors are all working from the same information - no surprises, no guesswork, and far less risk of straying from approved plans.
For property managers juggling multiple buildings, that kind of documentation is gold. It creates a verified baseline for every future project, making it easier to stay compliant, plan upgrades, and respond quickly when inspectors or tenants raise questions.
That’s why we often recommend our partners at Fog City As-Builts. For more than 20 years, they’ve been helping Bay Area property owners, architects, and developers create precise, up-to-date drawings using advanced 2D and 3D technology. Their team is fast, professional, and experienced with the nuances of San Francisco’s building stock.
Brought to you by Property Atlas.
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