wvpolekat
Platinum Member
That's unusual. Typically building codes apply to the resulting structure/installation, not the person doing the work. The homeowner exception is typically that the HO does not need to be licensed to do various work, but the work still must meet code.
There are lots of loopholes like that here. I assume it is because so much of the population lives in sub standard housing that they built as they could. There simply isn't money for enforcement, nor would/could many people here pay the fine if there was one.
You would also never expect to have anyone to call the building inspector if they saw you building something and didn't have a permit or whatever. Very much a live and let live attitude.
I have seen rental properties here that were little more than a shed. Wood stove, no insulation, plywood walls between the rooms. You get the picture. Most places, that would be condemned. Nobody bats an eye here.
Heck, I still know people who don't have electricity or running water. Friend of mine that has never had electricity was visiting with his 5 year old son one day. His son had to go to the restroom. He walked in closed the door, did his thing, all while never even thinking to flip the light on. He was used to functioning in the dark.