Building Code Violations And Construction Delays In Chicago

As a construction attorney in Chicago, I fully understand that building code violations and delays can be a major annoyance and costly stress for many people. Whether you’re building a house or renovating one, serious construction issues will definitely delay your plans or increase costs manifold. In Chicago, construction projects are subject to strict building codes, violations of which may lead to fines, penalties, and costlier delays.

Understanding Chicago Building Code Violations

Building codes in Chicago ensure that construction is built with safety and consistency in mind. Everything ranges from plumbing and electrical wiring to the actual supporting structure of the building and accessibility. Within these cities, there is a greater Municipal Code of Chicago that envelops the Chicago Building Code. Of course, there is no option not to comply with these regulations. Non-compliance can attract very serious consequences, including stop-work orders, fines, and added costs to bring the project into compliance.

Under Illinois law, in particular, under the Illinois Compiled Statutes, municipalities are given the right to adopt building codes and ensure that any construction carried out is at par with the required standards in terms of safety. Such is the case, for example, as provided by 65 ILCS 5/11-13-1, cities such as Chicago can adapt and enforce zoning and building codes.

Common building code violations that I encounter most in Chicago are:

• Poor Electrical Wiring – Unsafe or outdated wiring is a real fire hazard and can also lead to code violations. All electrical work needs to be done according to the Chicago Building Code.
• Permit Issues – If proper permits are not issued before starting construction, one will suffer fines and delays. Every part of the job needs to be sanctioned by the city, right from demolition to new construction.
• Other Structural Issues – All building foundations and other structural elements need to satisfy code requirements for the safety of the structure. Violations arise from common deviations from approved plans or injudicious use of low-quality materials.
• Lack of Accessibility – Inaccessibility pertaining to specifically ramps or accessible entrances, can also give rise to city code along with Illinois Accessibility Code violations.

Construction Delays In Chicago

Construction delays are one of the most common problems within house building or renovation work. This may be because of various reasons like unfavorable climatic conditions that do not support the anticipation of project completion, breaking down of supply chains, bad labor conditions, or simply problems with infractions of the building code.

Building code non-compliance must be one of the most frustrating common causes of delay in construction. If a violation is found, it can bring the entire project to a standstill until it gets resolved, adding much time to the project-especially if the violation takes long to get fixed.

While Illinois law generally requires that a construction work contract contains provisions showing what if any, action is to be taken in the event of delays, the most disputed area involves the determination of whether the delay was due to an unforeseen event. As stated under contract law in Illinois, building delay disputes form one stand where argumentative views always ensure that parties fall into mediation or litigation upon disagreement.

How I Can Help You Address Building Code Violations And Delays

Whether you are faced with a building code violation or a delay in your construction project, it is best that you get to act on it immediately. Building code violations can come with hefty fines, and delays may add more costs and frustration to your budget. As your attorney, I help you navigate the complexity of construction law and get your project on the right track as soon as possible.

I can help you with the following:

• Review your construction contract to ensure it has specific provisions regarding building code compliance and delays.
• Help the city expedite the process of resolving building code violations quickly and effectively.
• Represent you in court over legal disputes about delays or building code violations that have caused you financial damages.

Construction Delay Frequently Asked Questions

What if my home construction project violates Chicago’s building codes?

Depending on your project, the city might issue a stop-work order if your project is in violation of the Chicago Building Code, which means all construction must stop until the violation is cured. You could also be fined, and curing the violation may entail significant additional costs for your project. Sometimes, city inspectors will allow a project to continue during the time it takes to cure the violation, but this is not always assured.

How do I know if my construction project is in compliance with the building codes for the City of Chicago?

In this regard, all building projects in the Chicago area are subject to proper permits. The proper permits, however, are granted when their plans assure strict adherence to the city’s building codes. You should make sure you have a qualified contractor, and any alteration in the project is then approved by the city. I recommend talking with an attorney if you have concerns about code compliance to avoid expensive issues.

What would be some common causes of the delays in construction in Chicago?

Construction delays can be due to various reasons, including weather conditions, disruption of supply chains, and labor. However, one very prevalent factor identified in the city of Chicago is due to building code violations. A project may be completely stopped while the violation is being addressed, which extends construction timelines longer than expected.

Can I sue for any damage if my construction project is delayed?

Yes, under Illinois law, you may have grounds to file an action for damages, provided your construction project was delayed due to some breach of contract or negligence by the contractor. However, a review of the contract is in order, as most, if not all, contracts have provisions about how delays will be handled. An attorney can review your situation for potential claims.

What are my options if my contractor doesn’t comply with the building codes?

Depending on how bad the job is, you may be in a position where you can hold your contractor responsible for fines and/or any repairs needed to bring the job up to code. You may also be able to sue for breach of contract. It is important that you take immediate action to protect yourself.

Contact Our Chicago Home Construction Attorney For An Initial Consultation

If you are facing problems with building code violations or construction delays in Chicago, you don’t have to face it alone. Keller Law Group provides direction and support in various aspects of such legal issues to property owners and resolves those issues efficiently so that your project will be finished safely in due time. Contact our Chicago home construction attorney at Keller Law Group by calling 630-868-3093 to receive an initial consultation. Let us protect your rights and get your construction project back on track.