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.

Tuesday, December 19, 2017

Landlord Legal Responsibilities for Tenant Exposure to Mold

With a few exceptions, landlord responsibilities regarding mold have not been clearly spelled out in building codes, ordinances, statutes, or regulations. Below is a discussion of the few states and cities that do have mold laws, and an explanation of how landlords can be held responsible for mold problems even absent specific laws governing mold.

No federal law on Mold-sets permissible exposure limits or building tolerance standards for mold in residential buildings.

State Laws on Mold-Only a few states have taken steps toward establishing permissible mold standards. California, Indiana, Maryland, New Jersey, and Texas are among the few that have passed laws aimed at developing guidelines and regulations for mold in indoor air.
For example, California's "Toxic Mold Protection Act of 2001" authorizes the state's Department of Health Services (now called the Department of Health Care Services) to set permissible levels of indoor mold exposure for sensitive populations (like children, or people with compromised immune systems or respiratory problems). The California law also allows the DHCS to develop identification and remediation standards for contractors, owners, and landlords and requires landlords to disclose to current and prospective tenants the presence of any known or suspected mold.

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, December 14, 2017

Building & Safety Property Violation Compaints

The Department of Building and Safety is responsible for investigating building, mechanical and zoning code violations on existing commercial buildings and single family dwellings. To file a complaint regarding potential code violations on a private property such as illegal construction, substandard conditions, trash and debris, zoning violations, illegal signs, etc., complaints may be submitted online or by contacting 3-1-1. When submitting a complaint, your name and phone number are required. To file a complaint regarding potential code violations on apartment buildings, duplexes or two single-family dwellings on the same lot.

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, November 29, 2017

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, November 16, 2017

What is a pre-trial Conference?

A pre-trial Conference is a conference between the City agency and other parties, usually face-to-face, but sometimes by telephone in which the procedural issues and sometimes settlement are discussed. This may include exchanging evidence, clarifying the hearing issues and reaching agreement on some or all of the issues.

Call us to help you understand the process of the code violations and to make the process as smooth and easy as possible.

Posted 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.

Friday, November 10, 2017

Fines for building code violations to increase

Mayor Rahm Emanuel has proposed higher penalties for building code violations in 2018. What does this mean for building owners? It means that you need an experienced attorney to help you navigate through these issues and save you money on the hefty day to day fines. At Bradford Miller Law, P.C. we know the ins and the outs of the courtroom and would be happy to assist in keeping the fines down to a minimum and get your building back within code as quickly as possible. Call our office as soon as you receive your citation. 

Posted 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, October 25, 2017

What Are The 3 Building Codes?

Building codes are sets of regulations governing the design, construction, alteration and maintenance of structures. They specify the minimum requirements to adequately safeguard the health, safety and welfare of building occupant.

Rather than create and maintain their own codes, most states and local jurisdictions adopt the model building codes maintained by the International Code Council (ICC). The ICC’s family of International Codes includes:

International Building Code (IBC): Applies to almost all types of new buildings

International Residential Code (IRC): Applies to new one- and two-family dwellings and townhouses of not more than three stories in height

International Existing Building Code (IEBC): Applies to the alteration, repair, addition or change in occupancy of existing structures.The ICC publishes new editions of the International Codes every three years and many states and localities have adopted them since the first editions were issued in 2000. In 2000, the three regionally-based model code organizations (BOCA National Code, SBCCI Standard Code and ICBO Uniform Code) combined together to form the ICC.

Posted 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, June 1, 2016



Counsel Representation
As of March 31, 2014, the Illinois Appellate Court ordered that a corporation must be represented by a licensed attorney. This includes LLCs and Condo Associations.  A non-attorney may not appear on behalf of a corporation in a code violation case, meaning you cannot represent the corporation in a code violation case if you are an owner, officer or employee of the corporation. If the corporation or condo association fails to be represented by a licensed attorney, the Administrative Law Judge will not hear your case.
Cited for Building Code Violations? If so, call our office for a free consultation.
Bradford Miller Law P.C. represents Landlords, Buyers, and Sellers with all of their Real Estate needs.  From evictions to building code violations along with traditional sales and purchases, we have you covered.
At bradfordmillerlaw.com you will find helpful landlord information along with information about our firm. Our experienced attorneys have earned membership in the Better Business Bureau and we have great reviews on Yelp. Bradford Miller Law, P.C. can assist you with all your real estate needs at a very reasonable rate. Whether you are buying, selling, renting a property or need assistance with a building code violation we can help.

Posted by Bradford Miller Law, P.C.
134 N. LaSalle Street, Suite 1040
Chicago, IL 60602


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, May 4, 2016

What to expect at an Administrative Hearing for a Building Code Violation in Chicago



The participants in a violations case may vary depending on the nature of the code violation, but here is what you are likely to expect: hearing will have a hearing officer who has the authority to make a final ruling. The hearing officer is a licensed Illinois attorney and acts as an independent and impartial "judge.” The City, as the petitioner, will have an Attorney there to present its case. The City may also bring witnesses to support its case.
You have the right to hire an attorney to represent you. If the City presents its case through the in-person testimony of a city official or other witness, you have the right to ask questions of the City's witness. You also have the opportunity to present your evidence and witness as well.
If you are found liable, the hearing officer is required by law to impose the appropriate penalties set forth by the Municipal Code of Chicago. If you are found not liable, the hearing officer will dismiss the case against you and will not impose any penalties. In some cases, you may be found liable for some violations but not others.
Cited for Building Code Violations? If so, call our office for a free consultation.
Bradford Miller Law PC represents Landlords, Buyers, and Sellers with all of their Real Estate needs.  From evictions to building code violations along with traditional sales and purchases, we have you covered.
At bradfordmillerlaw.com you will find helpful landlord information along with information about our firm. Our experienced attorneys have earned membership in the Better Business Bureau and we have great reviews on Yelp. Bradford Miller Law, P.C. can assist you with all your real estate needs at a very reasonable rate. Whether you are buying, selling, renting a property or need assistance with a building code violation we can help.

Posted by Bradford Miller Law, P.C.
134 N. LaSalle Street, Suite 1040
Chicago, IL 60602


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, April 20, 2016

Maintaining Your Yard



All required landscaping must be maintained by the property owner in good condition. Any damaged or dead trees, shrubs or ground cover must be promptly replaced. Maintenance of landscaped areas includes weeding, mowing, trimming, pruning, edging, cultivation, seeding, fertilizing, watering, pest control and anything else necessary to ensure healthy plant growth.

Cited for Building Code Violations? If so, call our office for a free consultation.
Bradford Miller Law PC represents Landlords, Buyers, and Sellers with all of their Real Estate needs.  From evictions to building code violations along with traditional sales and purchases, we have you covered.

At bradfordmillerlaw.com you will find helpful landlord information along with information about our firm. Our experienced attorneys have earned membership in the Better Business Bureau and we have great reviews on Yelp. Bradford Miller Law, P.C. can assist you with all your real estate needs at a very reasonable rate. Whether you are buying, selling, renting a property or need assistance with a building code violation we can help.

Posted by Bradford Miller Law, P.C.
134 N. LaSalle Street, Suite 1040
Chicago, IL 60602


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.

Friday, April 8, 2016

2016 Building Permit Changes in Chicago



The City of Chicago has made 3 important changes to the 2016 building permit process. 

Permit Updates
·         Building permit applicants will now pay a $300
·         OUC  reviews of deep foundation permits will be conducted in-house by the City of Chicago

Permit Fee Increases
·         The Cost of Review is increasing by 66%. The increases will vary depending on the Occupancy Classification and Construction Type

Posted by Bradford Miller Law, P.C.

  Real Estate Law, Landlord Tenant Law, Estate Planning
 134 N. LaSalle, Suite 1040
 Chicago, IL 60602
312-238-9298
 http://www.bradfordmillerlaw.com/

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