3 Common Building Violations in Chicago that are Easy to Avoid
Getting cited for a building violation in Chicago can be an expensive, but an avoidable headache. Anyone who has received a building violatIon knows it can be a frustrating experience.
There are steps you can take to avoid the hassle and expense of a building code violation. BLDG PROJECTS, a Chicago Architecture and Design firm is well versed in the ins and outs of daily construction issues, and we know how to navigate around to avoid them to cause the least delay. Take a look at what we consider three of the most common Chicago building violations and how to avoid them.
1) Not Obtaining a Permit Prior to Starting Work
If you’re planning a remodel or renovation of your home, you may need to get a permit before starting the project depending on the scope of work you are planning to do. Getting a proper permit before you start work will protect you from steep penalties and delays in your process. Hiring an architect will also ensure you are planning well and not making decisions that might cost you more money in the long run.
Here are examples of the type of project that requires a Building Permit (or an Easy Permit in some cases):
Building a deck or a porch. (Standard building permit)
Building a garage or carport.
Removing or adding interior walls, columns, or beams. Replacing drywall or electrical, plumbing as well.
Building a fence.
Finishing a basement.
Any electrical work.
Any alteration or replacement of plumbing system.
If you don’t get a required permit before starting work, the Chicago Department of Buildings will issue a Stop Work Order immediately suspending the project.
The Stop Work Order will only be lifted when you:
Obtain a permit, and pay a penalty that could have been avoided with a permit originally. This means you are spending much more to fix the issue, as opposed to spending money on your project. Also, if you did not follow Chicago code or were advised by a licensed architect on your design, you may have to make more changes to your construction because of the changes that may occur during review.
Violation of a Stop Work Order carries stiff penalties including up to:
$1,000 per day of violation
100 hours of community service
6 months imprisonment
The City may also order you to remove any work done without a permit.
2) Not Keeping Your Porch Safe & Up to Code
As a homeowner, you are legally required to maintain your property in compliance with the building code. One of the most common types of violation relates to front porch safety. So, what is an inspector actually looking for when they check your porch?
Inspectors look at:
Structural components
Stairs
Handrails
Unless your porch was built within the last ten years, it’s likely to have some violations. Here are some common porch violations:
Missing or Damaged Handrails: handrails must be at least 42” from the porch surface to the top of the handrail.
Damaged or Settled Steps: damaged stairs must be replaced and stairs that have settled more than 1” must be repaired.
Damaged Porch Surface: the floor of the porch must be in good condition and not have any damaged or rotting parts.
It’s important to keep your front porch in a safe condition. You may want to contact a contractor to examine your front porch if you suspect any damage. You can face an eviction of your tenants if your porch is not up to proper code and safety requirements.
3) Not Getting an Easy Permit when Allowed
The City of Chicago offers four types of permit review processes:
Easy Permit
Standard Plan Review
Self-certification
Developer services
The Easy Permit process is a streamlined way to get a permit for very minor home improvement projects. You can reach out to our office for help with Easy Permit Process. The fees are typically between $250 - $1,500 depending on the scope required.
Here are some examples of projects that qualify for an Easy Permit:
Wood fences
Replacement of existing plumbing fixtures
Drywall (under 1,000 sq ft)
Porch repair
Exterior door replacement
Small detached garages and sheds replacements
The Takeaway
Building code violations can be very expensive and carry stiff penalties, including jail time. But you can avoid a violation by taking some simple steps such as getting a permit before starting work, keeping your porch in safe condition, and using the Easy Permit process for smaller projects.
Contact BLDG Projects Chicago Architecture and Design Firm for more questions about permits and the process for your project. We will help you to figure out the cheapest, fastest and most appropriate solution for your project legally.
REFERENCES
https://www.chicago.gov/content/dam/city/depts/bldgs/general/Homeowner/GuidetoPermits110119.pdf - Guide to Permits, City of Chicago
https://www.chicago.gov/city/en/depts/bldgs/supp_info/porch-safety.html - City of Chicago, Deck and Porch Safety
https://www.chicago.gov/content/dam/city/depts/bldgs/general/EZPERMIT/PorchGuidelinesMay2011.pdf - City of Chicago, Front Porch Design
https://www.chicago.gov/city/en/depts/bldgs/provdrs/permits/svcs/easy-permits.html - City of Chicago, Easy Permit Process
