Got a Code Violation Notice?
Look, don’t throw the letter across the room yet. It’s not a warrant, it’s not the FBI. It’s just the city saying ‘Hey, your grass is lookin’ like Jumanji’ or ‘That porch is about to fall off.’ We’ve got your back.
First Things First — Breathe.
A code violation doesn’t mean you’re a criminal. It means some inspector had a clipboard and too much coffee.
Deadlines are real, though. Look at the date on that notice before you binge-watch Netflix.
You’ve got options. Fix it, hire it out, or sell as-is. No shame in any of them, people do it every day.
COMMON MYTHS VS REALITY
Separating Scary Stories From the Real Deal
Myth 1: The city hates me.
Reality: Nah. They’re just checking boxes. You’re one of 1,000 houses on their list.
Myth 2: I can’t sell with a code violation.
Reality: Investors love ‘ugly duckling’ houses. Some even prefer them.
Myth 3: If I ignore it, it’ll just go away.
Reality: Nope! That notice is like bad Wi-Fi …. it’s only going to get worse if you don’t handle it. A small fine today can become a big one tomorrow, or even a lien.
Your Quick ‘Stop the Bleeding’ List:
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Snap photos of the notice and the problem
Call the city to confirm deadlines/fines
Gather permits, bids, or any letters you’ve received
Decide: fix now, hire out, or sell as-is
Be upfront with buyers/investors/contractors
Line up your, ” Plan B”
***** Whether it’s a contractor, an investor, or a “sell as-is” option, have your backup ready so you’re not scrambling at the last minute. *****
City-Speak, Decoded.
“Compliance Date” = Your deadline. Miss it and you’ll get a fine.
“Notice of Violation” = A formal “Hey, you’re out of code.” Not a court summons.
“Administrative Fee” = A small penalty for missing a deadline. It’s not a lien yet.
(Think of it as your own personal Rosetta Stone for government letters.)
Need Step-by-Step Help?
Download our Free Code Violation Survival Guide. We break the process down like a TikTok recipe … simple steps, no judgment.
Need a Hand Getting It Fixed?
Sometimes you don’t wanna mow, paint, or fix that deck yourself. We’ve got a Resource Page with landscapers, painters, handymen and more who specialize in code violation clean-ups. Because stress shouldn’t be a DIY project.