Discovering that work on your property was done without the proper permits can be stressful, especially when it comes with a code violation notice. The good news is that in most cases, the situation can be resolved through an after-the-fact permit. At IG Permit Expeditors, we help Miami property owners navigate this process every day. Here’s what you need to know.
What Is a Code Violation?
A code violation is issued when work is done on a property without the required permits or inspections, or when the work doesn’t meet local building codes. In Miami-Dade, violations are commonly triggered by unpermitted additions, electrical or plumbing work, roof replacements, fences, sheds, or interior renovations. Once a violation is on record, it must be resolved to avoid fines and to keep your property in good legal standing.
What Is an After-the-Fact Permit?
An after-the-fact permit is a permit obtained for work that has already been completed without authorization. Instead of permitting the work before it begins, you’re essentially asking the city or county to review and approve it retroactively. This is the standard path to legalizing unpermitted work and clearing the associated violation.
Why Resolving a Violation Matters
- Avoid accumulating fines, which can grow daily until the violation is resolved.
- Protect your ability to sell or refinance, since open violations and unpermitted work often surface during title searches and appraisals.
- Ensure safety, as inspections confirm the work meets code.
- Maintain peace of mind, knowing your property is fully compliant.
The After-the-Fact Permit Process
While every case is unique, the process generally follows these steps:
- Assessment: Review the violation notice and identify exactly what work needs to be permitted.
- Plans and documentation: Prepare or obtain signed and sealed drawings reflecting the existing work, often with help from an engineer or architect.
- Application: Submit the after-the-fact permit application to the city or county, typically with additional fees.
- Inspections: The completed work is inspected to verify it meets current building codes. Some work may need to be opened up or corrected.
- Corrections: If anything fails inspection, repairs are made and re-inspected.
- Final approval: Once everything passes, the permit is closed out and the violation is cleared.
How an Expeditor Helps
After-the-fact permits often involve extra fees, stricter scrutiny, and more paperwork than standard permits. A permit expeditor knows exactly what each Miami-Dade department requires, helps gather the right documentation, manages submissions, and keeps the process moving so violations get cleared as quickly and smoothly as possible.
Resolve Your Violation With IG Permit Expeditors
If you’ve received a code violation or have unpermitted work on your property, you don’t have to face it alone. IG Permit Expeditors guides Miami property owners through the after-the-fact permit process from start to finish.
Dealing with a violation or unpermitted work? Contact IG Permit Expeditors today for a consultation.