Which of the following indicates a reason for uncovering a portion of a building?

The correct answer is that a permit was never issued for the construction. This indicates a significant compliance issue with building regulations. When construction takes place without the necessary permits, it can lead to violations of local building codes, safety standards, and zoning laws. Uncovering a portion of the building may be required to assess the work done and ensure that it meets all legal requirements established by the municipality.

Building codes are designed to protect public safety, and uncovering unpermitted construction allows for an inspection to confirm that the structure adheres to safety standards. It is crucial for compliance and to avoid potential legal repercussions for the property owner.

The other options represent different contexts or agreements that do not inherently require uncovering a portion of the building to determine compliance or safety. A verbal agreement, the age of the building, or unsubmitted plans are not direct causes to require uncovering; they may indicate procedural issues, but they do not carry the same weight concerning actual structural compliance under building regulations.