Inheriting a property comes with both emotional and financial responsibilities. One unexpected challenge many people face is discovering existing building violations or unpermitted work attached to the property. If you find yourself in this situation, here’s exactly what you need to do:
Understand the Violation Notice
The first step is to carefully read the violation notice. Identify:
- The exact nature of the violation (structural, electrical, plumbing, zoning),
- Deadlines for compliance,
- Any penalties or fines already in place.
If you’re unsure about any part of the notice, contact your local building department immediately for clarification. Never ignore a violation notice, as it can escalate to liens or legal action.
Check the Property’s Violation and Permit History
Request a full violation and permit history from the local building department. This will:
- Confirm all existing open violations,
- Reveal if there were previous unpermitted renovations or additions,
- Help you understand any past compliance issues that may affect future transactions.
Knowing the complete history protects you from surprises when insuring, refinancing, or selling the property.
Consult the Right Professionals
Building violations can be complex. It’s important to seek guidance from:
- A real estate attorney to understand your legal responsibilities,
- A licensed contractor or architect to assess necessary repairs,
- An expeditor or permit professional if you need to legalize unpermitted work quickly.
They can walk you through paperwork, code requirements, and communications with the city.
Create a Clear Compliance Plan
Once you understand what needs to be done, create a step-by-step plan:
- Identify required permits and documents,
- Hire licensed professionals for corrections,
- Schedule necessary inspections, and
- Keep detailed records of all work, approvals, and communications.
Having a clear plan minimizes delays and avoids additional fines.
Budget for All Costs
Resolving violations can cost anywhere from a few hundred to several thousand dollars, depending on severity. Costs may include:
- Permit application fees
- Contractor and professional service fees
- Materials and labor for correction work
- Potential penalties if deadlines were missed
Being financially prepared avoids last-minute surprises.
Maintain Open Communication with the City
Throughout the process, keep in touch with your local building department. Update them on your progress, request extensions if needed, and clarify any code requirements. Proactive communication shows good faith and can prevent enforcement actions.
Get Official Clearance
Once the violation is resolved:
- Request official clearance letters or compliance certificates and
- Ensure property records are updated to reflect that the violation has been closed.
This protects you from future legal or financial issues.
Final Thoughts
Inheriting a property with building violations may feel overwhelming, but with proper assessment, professional help, and clear communication with the city, you can resolve the issue efficiently.
At ViolationClinic.com, we specialize in helping property owners navigate the recertification process smoothly. Whether you need assistance with inspections, violations, or compliance issues, our team is here to help. Don’t wait until it’s too late, take action today to protect your investment and ensure the safety of your building.
For more information or assistance, contact us at ViolationClinic.com!