Converting single family split foyer to a 2 family home (Baltimore: apartments, foreclosure)

[dontworry2009]

[FONT=Arial]I need your help. 5 years ago my husband and I bought a large split foyer home in Baltimore County from a friend who was going into foreclosure. The original owner had converted the home into a two family but not legallly. We kept it that way since it was always occupied by my daughter and her roomate. We totally remodelled the kitchen and all bathrooms are new. My daughter has 3 bedrooms, 2 full bath, kitchen, living room, dining room, deck, etc.on the top level.The roommate lives on the downstairs with 2 bedrooms, separate kitchen, entrance, walk out sliding glass door, bathroom etc. How do I go about legally converting this home to a 2 family dwelling so each can have control of their own utilities?[/FONT]

[mrboltonman]

I looked at a house in Baltimore County with illegal apartments and was told to get the zoning changed I would have to request a hearing. You have to let your neighbors know about the zoning change request and also show why the zoning should be changed. If other properties have apartments or maybe the apartment was built before 1940 (I think) then you should have a chance.

The zoning commission will have more info on it.
Zoning Commissioner (http://www.baltimorecountymd.gov/Agencies/planning/welcome/zoning_commissioner.html - broken link)

If you are caught with an illegal dwelling unit I was told that you can get fined and will have to remove the unit. The tenant(s) will have to leave the property and the landlord is responsible to pay them something.

Also, Baltimore County recently passed a law requiring most rental units to be registered.
Rental House Registration

[Woodlands]

I would agree with MrBoltonman.. the proper thing to do would be to get it legally approved.. BUT.... if it is not allowed by Zoning and/or you have to get a Variance or some other land use change/consideration.... the public hearing that usually follows will let you know what neighbors are your friends or foes. Technically, most "variances" are granted based on some hardship that was beyond your control and not on who shouts the loudest at a town meeting though that is sometimes questionable. Then again "hardship" is not interpreted as " oh i didnt know about that rule and now the work is done..please forgive me nah nah" .If you lose.. I think you can appeal to the Circuit Court but their decision would be final. After that.. the County now KNOWS you have the illegal unit and will likely force you into compliance... Ouch