Garage permits and demolitions

In the City of Chicago a permit is required to tear down/remove a garage. The City of Chicago published the following situation on their website which may be helpful to explain why a demolition permit may also be required: 

Q: I recently bought my house and there was no garage. I then applied for a permit but it was not issued. I was told that I needed a demolition permit before I would be allowed to apply for a permit for a new garage. Why was the permit not granted?

A: According to the city records, there was a garage at that address at one time, but the previous owner demolished it, without a permit. The city will not issue a permit at a site if there is no record of a permit to remove the previous structure.

Bradford Miller Law, P.C. can assist you with all your real estate needs, from buying, selling, landlord issues and building code violation we are here to help. Our experienced Attorneys have earned membership in the Better Business Bureau. At bradfordmillerlaw.com you will find information about our firm along with helpful real estate information.

While there can never be a guarantee as to the outcome of your case, having legal representation, whether from us or another firm, can be beneficial to your property and finances. Located in downtown Chicago at 134 N. LaSalle, Suite 1040, our firm has been assisting clients with Building Code violations for several years. For proper, experienced representation call us at 312-238-9298 for a FREE 15-minute consultation.

Posted by Bradford Miller Law, P.C.

Practicing in Real Estate Law, Landlord Tenant Law, and Estate Planning

Offering free legal representation to homeowners seeking a short sale

Key words: Chicago Building Code Violations, Short Sale Attorney, Chicago Landlord Tenant Law Attorney, Illinois Landlord Attorney, Chicago estate planning attorney, Estate Planning Lawyer, Chicago Leases, Chicago real estate attorney, Chicago real estate lawyer, Chicago real estate closings. This is intended to be advertising.  Please consult with an attorney before acting on any information given here.

Information on the City of Chicago Demolition Process

The Department of Buildings' Demolition Bureau responds to complaints generated by the 311 system reported by residents, community groups, Aldermanic offices, as well as the Chicago Police Department. The bureau responds to complaints of vacant and open buildings. Buildings that are abandoned and scenes of criminal activity are inspected and then referred to the Circuit court system. The process consists of identifying a responsible party who will secure, rehab, sell or raze the structure. If these standards cannot be met, the Demolition bureau continues to inspect the building throughout the court case. In some cases, the court may order the premises to be properly secured, or ultimately demolished.

Bradford Miller Law, P.C. has extensive experience in defending property owners cited by the City of Chicago for violations of the municipal code. Where violations exist, it is our goal to work with our clients and get them the time they need to bring violations up to code and avoid fines or liens. If the violation does not exist, we will advocate on your behalf to prove that you are not violating the law.

While there can never be a guarantee as to the outcome of your case, having legal representation, whether from us or another firm, can be beneficial to your property and finances. For proper, experienced representation call us at 312-238-9298 for a FREE 15-minute consultation.

We also can assist you with all your real estate needs, from buying, selling, landlord issues and building code violation we are here to help. Our experienced Attorneys have earned membership in the Better Business Bureau. also check out our great reviews on Yelp. At bradfordmillerlaw.com you will find information about our firm along with helpful real estate information.

Posted by Bradford Miller Law, P.C.

Practicing in Real Estate Law, Landlord Tenant Law, and Estate Planning

134 N. LaSalle, Suite 1040

Chicago, IL 60602

Offering free legal representation to homeowners seeking a short sale

Key words: Chicago short sale attorney, Chicago landlord tenant law attorney, Chicago estate planning attorney, Estate Planning Lawyer, Chicago Leases, Chicago real estate attorney, Chicago real estate lawyer, Chicago real estate closings, Chicago building code violations, Short sale attorney Chicago. This is intended to be advertising.  Please consult with an attorney before acting on any information given here.

Chicago Building Code-Clarifications and Interpretations

The City of Chicago, Department of Buildings strive for consistency and fairness in the interpretation of the Chicago Building Code. The permitting and inspection process promotes high quality design standards as well as the conservation, rehabilitation and reuse of the City's existing buildings. 

It is essential to the continued acceptance of the permit process and the resulting safety of the citizens of Chicago that all plans and applications are judged by the same standards. Each project is unique and may include elements that make the guidelines inapplicable. Where specific cases require additional analysis of the Code, the Building Commissioner or their designee will provide the definitive interpretation. As a general rule, the Municipal Code is the primary authority. 

The City of Chicago, Department of Buildings, Building Code-Clarifications and Interpretations can be reviewed in it's entirety on the City of Chicago's website. 

Bradford Miller Law, P.C. has extensive experience in defending property owners cited by the City of Chicago for violations of the municipal code. Where violations exist, it is our goal to work with our clients and get them the time they need to bring violations up to code and avoid fines or liens. If the violation does not exist, we will advocate on your behalf to prove that you are not violating the law.

While there can never be a guarantee as to the outcome of your case, having legal representation, whether from us or another firm, can be beneficial to your property and finances. For proper, experienced representation call us at 312-238-9298 for a FREE 15-minute consultation.

We also can assist you with all your real estate needs, from buying, selling, landlord issues and building code violation we are here to help. Our experienced Attorneys have earned membership in the Better Business Bureau. also check out our great reviews on Yelp. At bradfordmillerlaw.com you will find information about our firm along with helpful real estate information.

Posted by Bradford Miller Law, P.C.

Practicing in Real Estate Law, Landlord Tenant Law, and Estate Planning

134 N. LaSalle, Suite 1040

Chicago, IL 60602

Offering free legal representation to homeowners seeking a short sale

Key words: Chicago short sale attorney, Chicago landlord tenant law attorney, Chicago estate planning attorney, Estate Planning Lawyer, Chicago Leases, Chicago real estate attorney, Chicago real estate lawyer, Chicago real estate closings, Chicago building code violations, Short sale attorney Chicago. This is intended to be advertising.  Please consult with an attorney before acting on any information given here.

The City of Chicago, Department of Buildings Reminds Building Owners...

...to keep decks and porches safe for outdoor use and repair and maintain structures in accordance with the Chicago Building Code. On June 3, 2015, they posted the following information on their website:

"As we quickly move into the warmer months in Chicago, the Department of Buildings reminds residents to take time this spring and early summer to inspect decks, porches, balconies and stairs for needed repairs and to always use decks and porches safely during the warm summer months.

"Property owners need to be mindful of building maintenance, including checking decks and porches for any wear and tear and immediately addressing unsafe conditions," said Buildings Commissioner Felicia Davis. "Safety doesn’t end with an inspection, and we remind residents to properly use decks and porches during the summer and limit the number of people on these structures."

Residents should check for important signs of deterioration, including:

• Split or rotting wood, or evidence of water damage
• Loose, missing or rusting hardware or bolts
• Loose or missing anchors where the porch attaches to a building
• Missing, damaged or loose support beams and planking
• Excessive movement of the structure when walked on
• Wobbly handrails or guardrails

If problems are identified, stop using the porch, balcony, deck or stairs immediately. Renters should report the concerns to the building owner or property manager. If the problem is not quickly addressed, renters should call 311 and request an inspection. Owners are required by law to make necessary repairs and maintain their property in a safe condition.

The Department of Buildings inspects approximately 5,000 porches each year as part of annual inspections of buildings. Due to greater awareness and stricter code requirements, the number of 311 complaints about potentially dangerous porches has been reduced over the years.

In 2014, the Department of Buildings received 1,923 porch-related complaints and issued 2,405 permits to repair, replace or build new porches. The number of permits issued to repair or build new porches continues to remain consistently above 2,000 each year, an indication that porches are being maintained. In 2012 and 2013, the Department issued 2,028 permits and 2,494 permits respectively.

For more information related to porches, please visit www.deckporchsaftey.com

The Department of Buildings supports the safety and quality of life for the residents and visitors of the City of Chicago through enforcement of the Chicago Building Code.

Bradford Miller Law, P.C. can assist you with all your real estate needs, from buying, selling, landlord issues and building code violation we are here to help. Our experienced Attorneys have earned membership in the Better Business Bureau. At bradfordmillerlaw.com you will find information about our firm along with helpful real estate information.

While there can never be a guarantee as to the outcome of your case, having legal representation, whether from us or another firm, can be beneficial to your property and finances. Located in downtown Chicago at 134 N. LaSalle, Suite 1040, our firm has been assisting clients with Building Code violations for several years. For proper, experienced representation call us at 312-238-9298 for a FREE 15-minute consultation.

Posted by Bradford Miller Law, P.C.
Practicing in Real Estate Law, Landlord Tenant Law, and Estate Planning

Offering free legal representation to homeowners seeking a short sale

Key words: Chicago Building Code Violations, Short Sale Attorney, Chicago Landlord Tenant Law Attorney, Illinois Landlord Attorney, Chicago estate planning attorney, Estate Planning Lawyer, Chicago Leases, Chicago real estate attorney, Chicago real estate lawyer, Chicago real estate closings. This is intended to be advertising.  Please consult with an attorney before acting on any information given here.

City of Chicago Boiler Inspections

The Boiler Inspection Bureau makes periodic inspections of boilers and unfired pressure vessels at all apartment buildings where the boiler heats four or more apartments, commercial buildings, schools, churches, hospitals, nursing homes, etc. Types of inspections performed by the boiler inspection bureau are as follows:

Internal Inspection: Performed on high pressure boilers or low pressure boilers used for processing. This inspection enables the inspector to see the condition the unit is in internally, checking for tube leakage, pitting of the tubes, etc. Whenever necessary, internal inspection will be performed on a pressure vessel.

External Inspection: Performed on all boilers and unfired pressure vessels. This inspection, in part, consists of checking safety valves, return lines, breeching, etc. while unit is in operation. 

Occupancy Inspection: Performed on boilers and pressure vessels installed in a new or existing buildings to ascertain units have been properly installed and all required permits have been obtained. 

First Inspections: First inspections derive from permits taken out for newly installed boilers and pressure vessels at the Environmental Desk. A copy of the permit is send to the boiler inspection bureau.

Hydrostatic Test: Performed on new or used boilers newly installed to check condition of unit, or when extensive repairs have been made on an existing boiler

Boiler Inspection Questions and Answers

Q: Why is our boiler inspected every year?

A: The Chicago Building Code states all boilers and pressure vessels must be inspected annually.

Q: Why do boiler inspectors also inspect pressure vessels?

A: Boilers and pressure vessels are constructed similarly. Essentially, a boiler is a pressure vessel.

Q: Who can repair my boiler?

A: Any Boiler Contractor who is licensed with the City of Chicago.

Additional information can be found on the City of Chicago's website.

Homeowners and Landlords are required by law to make necessary repairs and maintain their property in a safe condition. You should always avoid getting a Building Code Violation in the first place but if you find you need help, Bradford Miller Law, P.C. has extensive experience in defending property owners cited by the City of Chicago for violations of the municipal code. Where violations exist, it is our goal to work with our clients and get them the time they need to bring violations up to code and avoid fines or liens. If the violation does not exist, we will advocate on your behalf to prove that you are not violating the law.

While there can never be a guarantee as to the outcome of your case, having legal representation, whether from us or another firm, can be beneficial to your property and finances. For proper, experienced representation call us at 312-238-9298 for a FREE 15-minute consultation.

We also can assist you with all your real estate needs, from buying, selling, landlord issues and building code violation we are here to help. Our experienced Attorneys have earned membership in the Better Business Bureau. also check out our great reviews on Yelp. At bradfordmillerlaw.com you will find information about our firm along with helpful real estate information.

Posted by Bradford Miller Law, P.C.

Practicing in Real Estate Law, Landlord Tenant Law, and Estate Planning

134 N. LaSalle, Suite 1040

Chicago, IL 60602

Offering free legal representation to homeowners seeking a short sale

Key words: Chicago short sale attorney, Chicago landlord tenant law attorney, Chicago estate planning attorney, Estate Planning Lawyer, Chicago Leases, Chicago real estate attorney, Chicago real estate lawyer, Chicago real estate closings, Chicago building code violations, Short sale attorney Chicago. This is intended to be advertising.  Please consult with an attorney before acting on any information given here.

Chicago's Conservation Inspection

The Division of Building Inspections, more commonly known as "Conservation", is charged with enforcing the Chicago Building Code as it relates to the City's existing housing stock. Inspection activities include yearly inspection of over 22,000 "Annual" buildings, court ordered re-inspections, license application inspections, inspection of public places of assembly, surveys, and exterior wall inspections.

The bulk of their inspections are generated by citizen complaints. These complaints vary in the degree of severity and range from insufficient heat in dwelling units to bricks falling from buildings. Homeowners and Landlords are required by law to make necessary repairs and maintain their property in a safe condition. You should always avoid getting a Building Code Violation in the first place but if you find you need help, Bradford Miller Law, P.C. has extensive experience in defending property owners cited by the City of Chicago for violations of the municipal code. Where violations exist, it is our goal to work with our clients and get them the time they need to bring violations up to code and avoid fines or liens. If the violation does not exist, we will advocate on your behalf to prove that you are not violating the law.

While there can never be a guarantee as to the outcome of your case, having legal representation, whether from us or another firm, can be beneficial to your property and finances. For proper, experienced representation call us at 312-238-9298 for a FREE 15-minute consultation.

We also can assist you with all your real estate needs, from buying, selling, landlord issues and building code violation we are here to help. Our experienced Attorneys have earned membership in the Better Business Bureau. also check out our great reviews on Yelp. At bradfordmillerlaw.com you will find information about our firm along with helpful real estate information.

Posted by Bradford Miller Law, P.C.

Practicing in Real Estate Law, Landlord Tenant Law, and Estate Planning

134 N. LaSalle, Suite 1040

Chicago, IL 60602

Offering free legal representation to homeowners seeking a short sale

Key words: Chicago short sale attorney, Chicago landlord tenant law attorney, Chicago estate planning attorney, Estate Planning Lawyer, Chicago Leases, Chicago real estate attorney, Chicago real estate lawyer, Chicago real estate closings, Chicago building code violations, Short sale attorney Chicago. This is intended to be advertising.  Please consult with an attorney before acting on any information given here.