If you’ve received a notice of a building violation in Florida, don’t panic. While it might seem like a major setback, resolving building code violations can be straightforward—if you know what to do. Whether you’re a property owner, investor, contractor, or landlord, addressing these issues promptly is key to avoiding fines, project delays, or legal headaches. Here’s a simple, step-by-step guide on how to resolve building violations in Florida quickly and efficiently.
1. Understand the Violation Notice
The first step is to carefully read the notice you received. Building violations in Florida can range from unpermitted construction work and zoning infractions to safety hazards or maintenance issues. The notice will typically include:
- A description of the violation
- The specific code that was violated
- A deadline to correct the issue
- Potential penalties for non-compliance
Tip: Don’t ignore the notice—many municipalities charge daily fines until the issue is resolved.
2. Contact Your Local Building Department
Reach out to the city or county’s building or code enforcement department for clarification. You can ask:
- What steps are required to bring the property into compliance?
- Are there any forms, fees, or inspections involved?
- Is there an appeal process if you believe the violation is incorrect?
In Florida, each municipality may have its own procedures, so it’s essential to speak with the right office.
3. Hire a Licensed Professional (if needed)
Depending on the severity of the violation, you may need to hire:
- A licensed contractor for structural issues or unpermitted work
- An architect or engineer for plans or compliance reports
- A code violation specialist or expeditor to speed up the resolution process
Pro tip: Make sure whoever you hire has experience working with your local jurisdiction. This can drastically reduce back-and-forth delays.
4. Get the Proper Permits
One of the most common causes of building violations is unpermitted work. To fix this:
- Apply for an “after-the-fact” permit (yes, this is possible in most Florida counties)
- Submit drawings, site plans, or engineering reports if required
- Schedule inspections once the permit is approved
Make sure the work complies with current codes, not just the codes in place when the work was done.
5. Complete the Work & Schedule an Inspection
After the permit is issued, complete the corrective work as soon as possible. Then, call for a final inspection. The inspector will verify that the issue has been resolved and update the status of the violation.
If everything checks out, the violation will be officially closed, and you’ll receive a clearance or satisfaction letter.
6. Keep Records and Confirm Closure
Once resolved, always get written proof that the violation has been cleared. This documentation is essential, especially if you plan to:
- Sell or refinance the property
- Pull new permits in the future
- Avoid confusion if another notice is mistakenly issued
Need Help Resolving a Building Violation in Florida?
Time is money when it comes to building code issues. If you’re feeling overwhelmed or stuck in red tape, consider working with a code violation specialist or permit expeditor who knows the ins and outs of Florida’s local systems.
They can help you:
- File permits fast
- Coordinate inspections
- Communicate with city officials
- Save time, stress, and avoid costly delays
Final Thoughts
Dealing with building violations in Florida doesn’t have to be a nightmare. With the right information, team, and strategy, you can resolve them quickly and move forward with peace of mind. Always act fast, stay organized, and don’t be afraid to get professional help.
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!