Whether you’re a homeowner, landlord, or investor, ensuring your property is in good standing with local authorities is crucial. One common issue that can catch people off guard is outstanding property violations. These can range from code enforcement issues and zoning violations to unpaid fines or unapproved renovations. Left unchecked, they can lead to hefty penalties, legal trouble, or delays during a sale.
In this blog post, we’ll walk you through the steps to check for outstanding violations on your property—and how to handle them if you find any.
1. Start With Your Local Building Department or Code Enforcement Office
The most direct way to check for violations is to contact your local government office:
- Visit the official website of your city or county’s building department or code enforcement office.
- Look for a section on “Property Records,” “Code Violations,” or “Municipal Citations.”
- Many municipalities now offer online search tools where you can enter your property address or parcel number to view any open or past violations.
Pro Tip: If an online system isn’t available, call or visit the office in person. Staff can typically pull up the information you need.
2. Review the Property’s Public Records
In most jurisdictions, property violations become part of the public record. These can often be accessed through:
- Your county assessor’s website
- The recorder of deeds or clerk’s office
- Third-party platforms that aggregate public property data
When reviewing records, look for:
- Open code enforcement cases
- Liens or stop-work orders
- Notes about unpermitted construction or safety issues
3. Request a Municipal Lien Search (Especially When Buying or Selling)
If you’re planning to buy or sell a property, it’s wise to request a municipal lien search through a title company or attorney. This search reveals:
- Open violations
- Unpaid utility bills
- Permit issues
- Outstanding fines
Tip for Sellers: Getting a lien search done early can prevent last-minute surprises during escrow.
4. Check With Your HOA (If Applicable)
If your property is part of a Homeowners Association (HOA), be sure to check with them as well. HOAs often enforce their own rules, and violations like:
- Poor lawn maintenance
- Exterior paint issues
- Unauthorized improvements
…can result in fines or citations that aren’t tracked by the city but still affect you financially.
5. Take Action to Resolve Any Violations
If you discover a violation, take the following steps:
- Read the notice carefully to understand what’s required.
- Contact the code officer if you have questions about compliance.
- Make the necessary repairs or changes.
- Request a re-inspection to confirm the issue has been resolved.
- Keep records of all correspondence and documentation for your files.
Final Thoughts
Regularly checking for outstanding property violations is a smart way to protect your investment and avoid unnecessary headaches. Whether you’re maintaining a rental, preparing to sell, or just keeping things up to code, staying informed helps you stay in control.
At Violation Clinic, we specialize in helping property owners navigate the violation 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 property.
For more information or assistance, contact us at (786) 885-2613 or ViolationClinic.com!