Code violations can range from a minor inconvenience to a major deal-breaker when it comes to selling or living in your home. In this article, we’ll explore some of the most frequent code violations homeowners encounter and how to address them.
1) Working Without a Permit
A common oversight is undertaking home repairs without obtaining the necessary permits. Even seemingly small changes like replacing a toilet may require approval. Homes with unpermitted additions or alterations can pose challenges during a sale. To avoid complications, always check with your city before making changes to ensure your improvements align with safety, energy efficiency, and market standards.
2) Not Testing for Old Materials, Like Asbestos and Lead
Materials like asbestos and lead, prevalent in homes built before 1970, require careful handling due to health risks. Asbestos hides in places like popcorn ceilings and vinyl tiles, while lead is present in homes constructed before 1978. If detected, special crews must manage removal to protect both workers and occupants.
3) Improperly Fastening Deck or Balcony Ledgers to the House
Securing decks or balconies incorrectly can lead to structural issues and potential accidents. Improper flashing can cause rot, resulting in deck failure. It’s essential to hire a professional contractor who secures ledgers with proper permits to avoid safety hazards.
4) Venting a Bath Fan Into an Attic
Improperly venting bathroom fans into attics can lead to mold, mildew, and rot. Ensure proper ventilation by using a 4-inch diameter vent pipe, extending it beyond the attic and outside the house.
5) Botched Electrical Work
Faulty electrical work poses serious fire hazards. Common issues include incorrect circuit sizes, spliced wires without junction boxes, and missing Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCIs). GFCIs are crucial in areas with potential water exposure, such as kitchens and bathrooms. Due to safety concerns, it’s advisable to hire a professional electrician for any electrical work.
6) Adding a Bedroom Without an Egress Window
An egress window is essential for emergency escape routes. Adding a bedroom, improving a basement, or converting a space without installing an egress window can lead to safety concerns. Non-compliance may not impact your immediate living situation, but it can affect your home’s marketability when selling.
7) Failing to Follow Fence Height Requirements
Building tall fences for privacy without adhering to code can lead to neighbor disputes and city penalties. Ensure your fence complies with local regulations, obtaining permission from both the city and neighbors to avoid potential issues.
8) Improper Measuring of Staircase Handrails
Incorrectly measured staircase handrails can contribute to accidents. Handrails must be graspable, at the right height, and extend the full length of the stairway to prevent falls. Hiring a reputable stair company familiar with building codes is crucial to ensure compliance.
9) Broken or Missing Smoke Detectors and/or CO2 Detectors
Smoke detectors must be strategically placed in sleeping rooms, hallways, and stairwells to effectively detect smoke. Similarly, CO2 detectors are crucial for safety and should be installed on every floor. Ensure detectors are working correctly and comply with local regulations for the safety of your family and to meet selling requirements.
Addressing these common code violations ensures your home remains safe, marketable, and compliant with local regulations. Regular checks and professional assistance can save you from potential issues down the road. Consult local contractors and experts to ensure your home is up to code, protecting both your investment and your loved ones.
