Township continues building inspection amnesty program

Residents who skipped getting inspections can avoid fines

By Audrey Levine Staff Writer
   About 100 residents have taken advantage of the township’s amnesty program for homeowners who failed to get permits and inspections for improvements or repairs that were done in their homes.
   The amnesty program allows residents who made repairs on their homes without first getting the necessary permits anytime before March, to have a new opportunity to avoid having to pay thousands of dollars in fines. Instead, they must request an inspection of the work done.
   The cost for the inspection and permit can range from about $50 to several hundred dollars depending on the amount of fixtures being examined and what must be checked, such as electrical or plumbing.
   ”We can send people to their homes to inspect,” said Ron Skobo, township Building Department director. “Then we can make sure that what was done was done properly.”
   The program, according to Mr. Skobo, is designed to protect people from having to pay large fines that are the result of performing home improvements — including installing air conditioners and heaters, or finishing basements — and failing to apply for a permit in advance.
   According to Mr. Skobo, of the 100 people who have requested inspections, most were looking to get approval on their water heaters and basement improvements. He said the residents often completed the work required before actually realizing they needed to apply for a permit.
   ”A lot of people get things done in their homes and don’t realize they need a permit,” he said. “I would hate to have someone fined thousands of dollars for something that cost $30 or $40.”
   Mr. Skobo said the program began around May 2007 and will continue indefinitely, due to the great success the township has had. According to John Fiedler, construction official, more than 100 people have already requested an inspection.
   Mr. Fielder said those who want to have an inspection on prior work done in the home must pay a small fee, based on the type of work that was done, as well as the scope of it, how many fixtures were used and other criteria. Once the fee is paid, the work can be inspected and a permit issued after any changes have been made to ensure the safety of the residents.
   ”When someone gets a new furnace, for example, if it’s not hooked up properly, it could cause damage in the home,” Mr. Skobo said.
   According to Mr. Fiedler, many residents have been requesting inspections as they are preparing to close on their homes. He said Realtors know that it is harder to sell a home that does not have all the proper permits, so they make a point to check with the owners.
   The construction department will be discussing permits during its second Realtor seminar Sept. 18. Property owners can attend to learn what needs to be done when selling a home, including checking on zoning or other engineering-related issues that could affect the sale. Those who are interested in attending must call the township Construction Department to register at 369-4313, ext. 165.
   Mr. Skobo said the amnesty program is a way to ensure residents have safe homes despite any work they may have had done over the years.
   ”We are trying to cater to the public and do the right thing,” he said. “Residents have been very thankful for the program.”