Frequently Asked Questions - Code Compliance Community Development - Building Division 601 Heartland 630/466-8954 phone 630/466-1083 fax What Is Code Compliance? In general Code Compliance is abiding by the rules as set by local, state and federal authorities. The Village wishes to maintain a community that is a safe and desirable place in which to live and work. This is achievable by enforcing the rules as they apply to property, noise and other general “good neighbor” ordinances. How are codes enforced? The enforcement of codes is typically initiated in several ways: In response to a complaint by an individual; Observation of a code violation by Village staff as they patrol the community and do their jobs; As a consequence of an action (for example, an application for a building permit or a zoning variance). How do I notify the Village about a possible code violation? You may file a complaint about a possible code violation in person, in writing, or by phone. The Village receives many inquires everyday related to possible code violations. Please be prepared with specific information, such as: the address of the property, detailed description of the situation, and the length of time you have observed the situation. You do not have to identify yourself, but having your name will assist us with follow-up and ensure we have all the information we need to resolve the situation. We do make it a policy NOT to reveal complainant information. What is the procedure for following up on possible code violations? Response to possible violations is according to the impact of the violation on the community. Situations that appear to pose a serious risk to health and safety are given top priority; others are pursued in the order in which they are received. For all types of code complaints, an inspection is conducted to see if a violation exists. If a violation exists, usually personal contact is made to request compliance. If the individual responsible for the situation is not available or appears unwilling to voluntarily correct the violation in a timely manner, a notice of violation may be issued. What penalties result from code violations? In most cases, the individual responsible for the code violation is given the opportunity to voluntarily correct the situation and comply without penalty. If correction is not made, then the individual may be subjected to fines and other penalties. What are the benefits of maintaining you property? By maintaining your property you will receive a multitude of benefits. These include: strong property values, renewed pride of ownership, example setting for the neighborhood, and reduced crime and vandalism. So what can you do to take pride in your neighborhood and be a good neighbor? Keep your lawn mowed and property clean. Keep the exterior of your house, garage or shed painted and in good repair. Be sure your address number is posted, well lit, in Arabic numerals at least 6” in height and readable from the street with colors that contrast with the house. This is important should you need emergency personnel to assist you. Do not park on your lawn. Do not put your trash out until the evening before pickup and remove containers soon after pickup. Do not do major repair work to your vehicles on residential property. Make sure vehicles have current licenses and registration. Vehicles must be capable of operating under their own motor power. Trim your trees branches and shrubbery so they do not obstruct pedestrian or vehicle traffic, especially at corners. Do not post garage sale signs on trees or utility poles or in public rights of way (parkways). Do not allow dogs to run loose or bark excessively. Foundations, Masonry, & Exterior Surfaces Check foundation walls, floors, concrete and masonry for cracking, heaving or deterioration. Check chimney for loose, deteriorated or missing mortar. Check grading for proper slope away from foundation walls. Check all wood surfaces especially at the soil level for weathering, peeling paint or rot. Fix now. Check deck, patio, porch and exterior stairs and railings for deterioration or damage. Inspect gutters and downspouts for debris. Check for leaks. Roof Inspect for missing, loose or damaged shingles. Check for open seams, blisters or bald areas on flat roofs. Check flashing around all surface projections and sidewalls. Check antenna supports for possible leak sources. Check fascia for deterioration and damage. Check roof louvers for damage or birds nests. If ice dams were a problem last winter, have your attic property insulated and ventilated. Lawn & Landscape Plant trees, shrubs, remove left over fallen leaves, dead plants and lawn debris. Trim shrubs that brush against the house. Plant grass seed in bare patches. Interior Checks screens, windows, sash ropes or hold open devices. Check basement and crawl space for moisture or leaking water. Take care of all moisture problems. Check your home’s heating system. Open vents in crawl spaces in basements. Check your smoke detectors when you change clocks. Take note of slow drains or back-ups. If needed, have sewer pipes cleaned before a really big back-up occurs.