Is my air-conditioning cool?

Q. In 2005 we had central air-conditioning installed, separate from our forced-air heating unit. Everything was done according to code, and when I inquired about any permit, they said it's up to me, but in 2005 I had no thoughts of ever moving. Now I'm contemplating selling the home and moving. Will 'no permit' prevent me from getting a buyer, or keep the buyer from obtaining a mortgage? Are there steps I can take to get a permit at this point? I'm sure there'll be a cost, but more important, what's the best way (if any) to get the permit without worrying that I'll be scammed into a tear-out and re-do, assuming the installation, electrical, etc. are up to code?

A. Unless you installed a gas-powered unit, which involves a plumber to do code-compliant testing of the piping for leaks, your municipality doesn’t currently require a permit for your electric A.C. system. That being said, if you bring it to their attention, they may well require plans of the unit location, and if the outside condenser is in a side or front yard you will need to apply not only for a permit, but also for a zoning variance. Following these, you would be required to get an electrical inspection by a private agency and provide the agency's issued certificate to the building inspector before the final sign-off. Plan to spend six months to a year in this process in larger municipalities, and four to six months in smaller ones.
I could never be certain if not having a permit for your air-conditioning system will prevent your getting a buyer. Many banks, attorneys and real estate agents don’t know local building department requirements for air conditioning permits, and I can only guess that your buyer would probably not be restricted in obtaining a mortgage. The only reason I know this is because I interface with building departments on a regular basis and ask questions.