Wednesday, December 26, 2018

How to fix a building violation

Anytime you undergo an inspection there’s the chance of being given a notice of violation of a specific building code. Left unfixed, this notice can turn into anything from a hefty fine to closure of the structure. Because of the negative effects from building code violations, you should address the issues in question as soon as possible. Fixing building code violations is a simple process, though, requiring little more than contacting the right repair people and finishing the repair process in time for the follow-up inspection. Approaching the problem in a timely and efficient manner is the key, but done correctly should have you up to code with time to spare. Our office can help you navigate the process and help to prevent hefty fines.

Published by: Bradford Miller Law, P.C.
10 S. LaSalle, Suite 2920
Chicago, IL 60603
312-238-9298

Key words: Chicago short sale attorney, Chicago residential real estate attorney, Chicago landlord tenant law attorney, Chicago Landlord Attorney, Chicago eviction attorney, Estate planning attorney, Chicago real estate attorney, Chicago real estate lawyer, Chicago real estate attorney fees, Chicago estate planning attorney. This is intended to be advertising. Please consult with an attorney before acting on any information given here.

Thursday, March 15, 2018

What is the Purpose of Code Violation and Information?


What is the purpose of Code Violations and Information? It means Department of Permits, Licenses, and Inspections, and Code Enforcement Division monitors and ensures compliance with various city codes and ordinances. This includes overgrown lots or yards, inoperable or abandoned vehicles on private property, maintenance of structures, illegal signs, and anything else that may affect the quality of life within the boundaries of the City.

It is through this Division that the City is able to ward off neighborhood blight and thus protect the property values, and health, safety, and welfare of the various neighborhoods throughout the City.

The Code Enforcement Division responds to concerns about violations from citizens, other City Departments, and outside agencies. Systematic inspections are also performed throughout the City in an effort to keep developing situations from becoming worse.

  • Weeds and/or debris on a property
  • Abandoned vehicles on private property only
  • Sidewalks that are a tripping hazard
  • Snow and ice removal 
  • Potholes

Bradford Miller Law, P.C. has extensive experience in defending property owners cited 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
10 S. LaSalle, Suite 2920
Chicago, IL 60603

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.

Tuesday, February 27, 2018

Don't Let your Landlord get away with Self Help Evictions

Landlords who wants to evict a tenant are often anxious to do so. After all, if a tenant stops paying rent or causes problems at the property, it makes sense that the landlord would want to replace the tenant as soon as possible.

But landlords have to play by the rules when it comes to evictions. States and municipalities have laws that spell out the procedures, and landlords who ignore these laws are engaging in a "self-help eviction," which is illegal.

If your landlord wants you to move out and takes shortcuts through the legal system, don't stand for it. There are two ways you can get help: 1) by writing a letter to the landlord or 2) hire an attorney. List of Signs that your landlord is doing a Self-Help Eviction:

  • Your landlord locked you out of your apartment
  • Your landlord moved your belongings out of your apartment
  • Your landlord shut off your utilities (for example, heat, water, gas, electricity, or phone service)
  • Your landlord has ordered you or threatened you to leave
  • Your landlord has ignored your recent repair request

Bradford Miller Law, P.C. is one of the few firms that practice Building Code Violation Law. Located in downtown Chicago our firm has been assisting clients with Building Code violations for several years.

Published by: Bradford Miller Law, P.C.
10 S. LaSalle, Suite 2920
Chicago, IL 60603
312-238-9298

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

Tuesday, January 30, 2018

How to become an Official Building Code Enforcer.

Have you ever wanted to become a Building Code Advisor?

To become a building code enforcement official or building inspector, obtain a high school diploma and earn a certificate or degree that includes coursework in home or building inspections, drafting and construction technology, advises the U.S. Bureau of Labor and Statistics. Requirements for these positions vary by location.

Even among those with considerable work experience in the sector, a high school diploma is typically a requirement for becoming a code enforcement inspector, according to the BLS. Top candidates for positions in the field include those who have additional training beyond high school and who have put a focus on courses such as geometry, algebra and reading blueprints. Business management courses are also a plus.

Many building and construction inspectors enter the occupation holding a bachelor’s degree, reports the BLS. A license or some sort of certification that may take into account experience in the field is necessary in some states, while 35 states have policies that regulate the profession. Some require that those working as inspectors take a state-approved exam. Two major exams are the most popular, including the National Association of Home Inspectors exam and the American Society of Home Inspectors. Renewal of an inspector’s license is also required, usually every few years, and some states require inspectors to take continuing education courses to maintain their credentials.


Published by: Bradford Miller Law, P.C.
10 S. LaSalle, Suite 2920
Chicago, IL 60603
312-238-9298

Key words: Chicago short sale attorney, Chicago residential real estate attorney, Chicago landlord tenant law attorney, Chicago Landlord Attorney, Chicago eviction attorney, Estate planning attorney, Chicago real estate attorney, Chicago real estate lawyer, Chicago real estate attorney fees, Chicago estate planning attorney. This is intended to be advertising. Please consult with an attorney before acting on any information given here.

Tuesday, January 23, 2018

Comparing Quotes for a Building Inspection

Building inspectors are independent experts whose only job is to objectively inspect properties. They are competitively priced, so getting quotes makes sense. Just be sure you are getting "apples for apples" quotes. An inexpensive cursory inspection won't uncover all the faults. Your quotes should include everything that needs inspecting.

Some building inspectors are more conscientious than others. To ensure you choose a good one, ask them for testimonials and if they guarantee their reports. This will ensure you receive a quality report and help you move into your dream home sooner.

Published by: Bradford Miller Law, P.C.
10 S. LaSalle, Suite 2920
Chicago, IL 60603
312-238-9298

Key words: Chicago short sale attorney, Chicago residential real estate attorney, Chicago landlord tenant law attorney, Chicago Landlord Attorney, Chicago eviction attorney, Estate planning attorney, Chicago real estate attorney, Chicago real estate lawyer, Chicago real estate attorney fees, Chicago estate planning attorney. This is intended to be advertising. Please consult with an attorney before acting on any information given here.

Wednesday, January 17, 2018

What are the 2 types of Health Code Violations?

There are two main types of health code violations: structural and maintenance. Structural problems include buildings that are not built or fixed in compliance with a city’s building codes. Because they are not in compliance, it is dangerous for these residences to be occupied as they may crumble or become unsafe at any moment. Indications that there are structural health code violations in your apartment include seriously cracked ceilings or walls, water stains that are not curbed and continue to grow on the ceiling, uneven floors and other similar problems.

Let the attorneys at Bradford Miller Law, P.C. appear on your behalf to get the matter settled in a timely manner at a very reasonable rate. Our law firm handles these types of cases on a daily basis and can work with the City of Chicago to get the building code violations dismissed and/or get you ample time to fix the violations without being fined over and over again

Bradford Miller Law, P.C. is one of the few firms that practice Building Code Violation Law. We can also assist you with all your real estate needs at a very reasonable rate. We are adept at saving our clients time and expense while rigorously protecting their interests.Whether you are buying, selling, renting a property or need assistance with a building code violation we can help. Our experienced Real Estate Attorneys have been representing real estate clients for several years and have earned membership in the Better Business Bureau and we have great reviews on Yelp.

Published by: Bradford Miller Law, P.C.
10 S. LaSalle, Suite 2920
Chicago, IL 60603
312-238-9298

Key words: Chicago short sale attorney, Chicago residential real estate attorney, Chicago landlord tenant law attorney, Chicago Landlord Attorney, Chicago eviction attorney, Estate planning attorney, Chicago real estate attorney, Chicago real estate lawyer, Chicago real estate attorney fees, Chicago estate planning attorney. This is intended to be advertising. Please consult with an attorney before acting on any information given here.

Thursday, January 11, 2018

City of Chicago Building Permit

The Department of Buildings (DOB) Voluntary Compliance Program is designed to help ensure life safety and compliance with the Chicago Building Code.

The program allows building owners to avoid having a case filed against them in either the City’s Administrative Hearings Division or the Circuit Court of Cook County, which could result in significant fines. It allows homeowners to focus their time, energy and money primarily on their properties.

Rather than rely solely on punitive measures to compel building owners to repair and maintain property, DOB seeks to foster a positive and constructive relationship with each building owner so that code compliance is achieved.

The Voluntary Compliance Program is an opportunity for building owners and DOB staff to work together to encourage best practices in building design, construction and maintenance.

It's very important to have a building permit or else......you will be fined.

Published by: Bradford Miller Law, P.C.
10 S. LaSalle, Suite 2920
Chicago, IL 60603
312-238-9298

Key words: Chicago short sale attorney, Chicago residential real estate attorney, Chicago landlord tenant law attorney, Chicago Landlord Attorney, Chicago eviction attorney, Estate planning attorney, Chicago real estate attorney, Chicago real estate lawyer, Chicago real estate attorney fees, Chicago estate planning attorney. This is intended to be advertising. Please consult with an attorney before acting on any information given here.

Wednesday, January 3, 2018

How Much Does a Building Inspection Cost?

There is no flat rate for building inspections, as the fee will depend on the size of your property. On the lower end of the scale, an inspection of a small property might only cost between $200 and $300. For an average sized house in a regional area, the cost is usually somewhere between $400 and $500. In metropolitan areas, a complete inspection can be closer to $800 or up to $1000.

Pest inspections are less extensive and so tend to cost less. Expect to pay around $100-$150 for a pest inspection.

Getting a pre-purchase inspection of every house you look at can get expensive. Wait until you've seen the house you love, but don't let your desire for the house get in the way of paying for an inspection. If you discover faults, you can negotiate a lower price or if the dream house is harbouring nightmares beneath the surface, you can walk away and find your dream house elsewhere.

Published by: Bradford Miller Law, P.C.
10 S. LaSalle, Suite 2920
Chicago, IL 60603
312-238-9298

Key words: Chicago short sale attorney, Chicago residential real estate attorney, Chicago landlord tenant law attorney, Chicago Landlord Attorney, Chicago eviction attorney, Estate planning attorney, Chicago real estate attorney, Chicago real estate lawyer, Chicago real estate attorney fees, Chicago estate planning attorney. This is intended to be advertising. Please consult with an attorney before acting on any information given here.