What are the risks with illegal or unpermitted buildings?

A building erected without a permit or contrary to the development plan is illegal under Art. 225 of the Spatial Development Act (ZUT); demolition is ordered, depending on the building category, by the National Construction Control Directorate (DNSK) or the mayor. Older buildings completed by 31 March 2001 that complied with the rules of their time may qualify as "tolerated" — a municipal tolerance certificate is then required for a notarised sale, though it does not legalise the building. Structures built without a permit after 31 March 2001 cannot obtain that status and remain at risk of demolition — always verify the permit situation before buying. Details and links in our guide.