Receiving a notice of violation from Miami’s Unsafe Structures Program can be a shocking and stressful experience. Whether it’s due to aging infrastructure, weather damage, or a lack of maintenance, a citation means your property has been deemed a public safety hazard. While the process can seem daunting, a clear understanding of the steps and requirements is the key to a successful and timely resolution.
This guide will walk you through the process, empowering you to address the violation head-on.
Step 1: Understand the Violation and the Deadline
First and foremost, read your notice of violation carefully. The document will specify the exact nature of the problem, whether it’s structural cracks, a collapsing roof, or a compromised foundation. The notice will also provide a crucial deadline, typically within 30 days, to take action. Ignoring this deadline is the worst thing you can do, as it will lead to fines, liens, and further legal action by the city or county.
Pro Tip: Take photos of the notice as soon as you receive it, and make sure to store a copy in a safe place.
Step 2: Hire the Right Professionals
You cannot resolve an unsafe structures violation on your own. The city or county requires a licensed professional to assess the damage and provide a remediation plan. Your first call should be to a Florida-registered Structural Engineer or Architect.
A qualified professional will:
- Conduct a thorough inspection of the property.
- Confirm the validity of the violation.
- Determine the scope of work needed to bring the structure up to code.
- Draft a detailed corrective action plan and construction documents.
- Submit the necessary paperwork to the appropriate building department.
Once you have an approved plan, you will need to hire a licensed General Contractor to perform the repairs. Ensure your contractor is registered and has experience with these types of violations.
Step 3: Secure Permits and Begin Repairs
With the professional’s plan in hand, the next step is to obtain the required building permits. All work must be performed under a valid permit. Your contractor will typically handle the permitting process, but you should be an active participant, ensuring all paperwork is filed correctly.
Once the permits are issued, the repairs can begin. This is a critical period where compliance with the approved plans is paramount. All work must be completed to meet the local building code.
Step 4: Final Inspections and Case Closure
After all repairs are complete, the city or county will conduct a series of final inspections. The structural engineer or architect will be heavily involved in this process, often submitting an official letter of compliance to the building department.
Once the inspectors confirm that all violations have been rectified and the structure is deemed safe, the Unsafe Structures case will be officially closed. This final step removes the violation from your property record and prevents any further penalties.
Final Thoughts
Facing an unsafe structure violation can be challenging, but it is manageable with the right approach. By acting quickly, hiring qualified professionals, and following the official process, you can ensure your property is not only compliant with the law but also a safe and secure place for everyone.
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!