Navigating the intricate network of the Chicago building code is essential to a property investor’s responsibility. Ensuring the safety and compliance of rental properties is a legal requirement and a vital aspect of protecting your tenants and investments. In the windy city, these regulations cover everything from structural integrity to fire safety, and non-compliance can lead to significant penalties. Check out our breakdown of Chicago building code violations and the five most common building code violations to be aware of. 

In 2018, Chicago restructured their building codes to match the International Building Code (IBC). This new code goes hand in hand with the IBC structure and section numbers, which enables faster upgrades when the code cycle changes. This new code brings the city up to national standards and ushers in heightened life safety standards and cutting-edge technology integration that ensures Chicago’s buildings are among the safest in the world.

Not Obtaining a Building Permit

One of the most common violations for getting fined is conducting a renovation or remodeling without obtaining the proper permits. Having the correct permit before you start work will protect you from steep penalties and unwanted delays. Your construction project, whether it’s building a deck, finishing a basement, or even building a fence, will require a building permit or, in some cases, an “easy” permit. In the case of non-compliance, the Chicago Department of Buildings won’t hesitate to issue a “Stop Work Order,” instantly putting a halt to your project. 

The City of Chicago offers a streamlined, easy permit process for minor home improvement projects. The review processes range from easy permit and standard plan review to self-certification and developer services. Depending on the work’s scope, the fees for an Easy Permit can vary between $250 and $1,500.

Violating a “Stop Work Order”

In some cases, people avoid the “Stop Work Order” and continue their projects without obtaining the proper permits or complying. Not complying with a “Stop Work Order” can lead to severe penalties, including fines of up to $1,000 per day of violation, 100 hours of community service, or even six months of imprisonment. The order can only be lifted after obtaining a permit and paying the penalty. Remember, this can be avoided by getting the required permit in the first place. 

Porch Safety

As property owners, it is imperative to maintain safety standards in line with the building code. Porch safety is one of the most recurring violations. Inspectors will typically look for structural integrity, stairs, and handrails. A porch built over ten years ago is likely to have some violations. To avoid a potential lawsuit, we advise you to get your porch inspected for any defects.

Not Having a Sprinkler System

For certain types of buildings with large occupancies, such as residences with four or more apartments, schools, event venues that can house over 300 people, and hazardous occupancies, having sprinklers installed is a new requirement instated by the IBC.

Elevator Code Breaches

Elevator code violations are often found in high-rise buildings. While elevator inspections are handled by a separate department, other continuous and repeated infractions can raise concerns.

How We Can Help

Maintaining safety standards is crucial for your front porch, sprinkler system, or elevator. Countless landlords have been fined for violating one of these building codes, so make sure it isn’t you. If you are faced with a building code violation, contact us, and we will gladly represent you.