Navigating code violations stands as one of the most challenging aspects of homeownership. Regardless of your intent to sell, these violations can disrupt your plans and often entail significant costs for resolution.
Many homeowners find themselves bewildered by the nature of these violations and ill-prepared for their timely rectification. Determining the appropriate contacts or the steps necessary to address these issues can be exhausting. Below, we share our insights from resolving code violations in Providence, RI.
Know What City Department You Are Dealing With
If you’re facing a code violation, it typically stems from either a failed inspection or an incident that led the city to issue a notice. The city’s code enforcement is divided into three key areas: The Property Maintenance Group, The Health Unit, and the Building Code Unit.
The Property Maintenance Group focuses on maintaining the aesthetic standards of city properties, tackling issues related to lead paint and hazard limitations. The Health Unit’s responsibilities include inspecting commercial spaces to ensure they meet health regulations and managing the pest control program. Meanwhile, the Building Code Unit is in charge of issuing permits for renovations and ensuring adherence to the Uniform Building Standard codes.
Most residential concerns fall under the purview of either the Property Maintenance Group, for matters of property upkeep, or the Building Code Unit, for issues related to unauthorized construction activities.
Work with the City to Resolve Issues
The most effective and straightforward method to sell a house with code violations involves working closely with local authorities to rectify any issues. Violations related to the property’s visual appearance are often easily remedied by dedicating time to enhance the exterior.
By clearing overgrown weeds, removing debris, and organizing the surroundings, you can significantly improve the house’s curb appeal and address previous concerns simultaneously. It’s crucial to meticulously review each violation and address the root cause effectively. For more complex code violations, extensive renovations might be required to meet the current standards.
From our experience, it’s wise to work closely with inspectors to tackle potential issues. Take time to carefully examine each violation and actively seek explanations from inspectors on the necessary corrective actions. Always keep writing materials at hand to note down their guidance for future use.
Moreover, consider bringing a city-licensed contractor along during the inspection to help decode any technical jargon the inspector might use. Before the inspection wraps up, make sure the inspector gives you a detailed written and signed report of the property’s specific problems. Lastly, arrange a subsequent inspection with the city for a date after you’ve completed the required fixes.
Appeal to the City to Lift Violations
After addressing the specified violations, you must appeal to the city for their removal. An inspector will then visit your property to conduct a thorough review for any unresolved issues. It’s wise to have your initial walkthrough sheet at hand, to counter any attempt at adding new violations.
We’ve seen cases where subsequent inspections have led to the identification of extra items. If the repairs meet the established standards, the city is likely to revoke the code violation immediately. Official confirmation will be sent to your address later.
Common Code Violations
- Pipes or Fixtures with Leaks
- Unsafe Staircases and Handrails
- Insufficient Insulation and Poor Ventilation
- Outdated Electrical Wiring
- Inadequate Fire Alarm Systems
- Pest Infestations
Price the House To Sell Quickly
Selling a house that has code violations to a traditional buyer in Providence poses significant challenges. To achieve a successful sale, it might be necessary to substantially decrease the asking price. Most buyers prefer homes that are ready for immediate occupancy, free of complications.
However, substantial property issues can discourage lenders from providing financing, making cash offers a more practical solution. Septic, zoning, plumbing, and electrical problems can turn into significant concerns and deterrents for lenders.
Before you consider listing or selling the property on your own, it’s crucial to discover the advantages we can bring to the table. Our extensive background and experience empower us to manage house repairs economically, reducing costs and saving you considerable time and money over time. At Driven Cash Homebuyers, we specialize in purchasing homes across Rhode Island, including locations such as Newport, Westerly, Charlestown, and more.
Why You Should Sell Your House Directly
By keeping your house off the MLS, you bypass the inconvenience of property showings, marketing efforts, staging, and continuous maintenance. Eliminate the uncertainty of waiting for a sale or pondering potential offers.Also, you can forget about paying agent commissions, fees, and closing costs. Through our selling process, we guarantee a fast sale, no matter the condition of your property. Learn how effortlessly and stress-free selling your house with code violations in Providence can be by contacting us today.
About Jonathan Orcutt
Jonathan has been involved with real estate since 2006, and has been involved in hundreds of home sales throughout his career. He enjoys finding solutions for homeowners that benefit from a non traditional sale. Jonathan has experience in many areas of real estate. He loves fishing the providence river chasing bass in the early spring and then transitioning to fishing cape cod when things warm up. Don’t be surprised if you run into him on the water! Feel free to connect with him here: http://www.linkedin.com/in/jonathan-orcutt-b476352ba
