Florida’s beautiful weather and vibrant communities make it a desirable place to own property. However, with property ownership comes the responsibility of adhering to local codes and ordinances. For many, a code notice can be a source of confusion and stress. Understanding common pitfalls can save you time, money, and headaches. Here are the top mistakes property owners make when dealing with code notices in Florida.
1. Ignoring the Notice Entirely
This is arguably the most critical mistake. Many property owners receive a code violation notice and simply set it aside, hoping it will go away. Unfortunately, code violations rarely resolve themselves. Ignoring a notice can lead to:
- Increased Fines: Fines often escalate the longer a violation remains unaddressed.
- Liens on Your Property: Unpaid fines can result in a lien being placed on your property, making it difficult to sell or refinance.
- Legal Action: In severe cases, the local government may pursue legal action, forcing compliance and potentially incurring additional legal fees.
What to do instead: As soon as you receive a notice, read it thoroughly and understand the alleged violation and the deadline for correction.
2. Not Understanding the Violation
Code notices can sometimes be written in technical or legal jargon, making them difficult to decipher. A common mistake is assuming you understand the violation without truly grasping its specifics. This can lead to:
- Incorrect Repairs: You might attempt to fix something that isn’t the actual violation, wasting time and resources.
- Delayed Compliance: If you don’t address the core issue, you’ll likely receive further notices and fines.
What to do instead: If you’re unsure about the specifics of the violation, contact the issuing code enforcement office directly for clarification. They can explain the code section and the required actions.
3. Missing Deadlines
Code notices always come with a deadline for compliance. Property owners often underestimate the time it takes to address a violation, especially if it requires hiring contractors or obtaining permits. Missing these deadlines can result in:
- Additional Fines: Many jurisdictions impose daily fines once the initial deadline passes.
- Escalation to a Code Enforcement Board Hearing: If you fail to comply, your case may be presented to a code enforcement board, which can impose significant penalties.
What to do instead: Create a plan of action as soon as you receive the notice. If you anticipate difficulties meeting the deadline, contact the code enforcement officer before it expires to request an extension. Provide a valid reason and demonstrate progress towards compliance.
4. Failing to Document Compliance
Once you’ve addressed the violation, it’s crucial to prove it. A common mistake is simply fixing the issue and assuming the code enforcement office will know.
What to do instead: Document your compliance thoroughly. This includes:
- Taking “after” photos: These provide visual proof that the violation has been corrected.
- Keeping receipts: If you hired contractors or purchased materials, retain all invoices and receipts.
- Contacting the code enforcement officer: Inform them that the violation has been remedied and request a re-inspection.
5. Not Knowing Your Rights (or Obligations)
Property owners sometimes fail to understand their rights during the code enforcement process, or they may not fully grasp their obligations under local ordinances.
What to do instead: Familiarize yourself with your local city or county’s code of ordinances. Most are available online. If you believe the notice is issued in error, or if you have mitigating circumstances, you have the right to appeal the decision. Research the appeal process outlined in your notice or on your local government’s website.
6. Not Seeking Professional Help When Needed
Some code violations are complex or require specialized knowledge to fix. Property owners often try to handle everything themselves, even when a professional is needed.
What to do instead: Don’t hesitate to consult with professionals such as:
- Licensed Contractors: For structural, electrical, plumbing, or other construction-related violations.
- Attorneys: If the violation is severe, involves legal complexities, or if you are facing a code enforcement board hearing.
- Engineers: For issues related to structural integrity or complex building codes.
7. Neglecting Ongoing Property Maintenance
While not directly a mistake with a received code notice, a proactive approach to property maintenance can prevent many violations from occurring in the first place.
What to do instead: Regularly inspect your property for potential issues such as:
- Overgrown landscaping
- Accumulated debris
- Failing fences or structures
- Peeling paint or deteriorating exteriors
- Unpermitted additions or alterations
By being vigilant and addressing minor issues before they become major problems, you can avoid the stress and expense of code enforcement notices.
Conclusion
Receiving a code notice doesn’t have to be a nightmare. By understanding these common mistakes and adopting a proactive, informed approach, Florida property owners can navigate the code enforcement process effectively and ensure their properties remain in compliance with local regulations.
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!