Save $2000 READ THIS!
A phone call or e-mail could save you $2000. That’s right just a phone call or an e-mail. Prior to beginning a “simple” home improvement project, a phone call or e-mail to the Code Enforcement Office can save you a penalty for performing work without a permit.
Penalties for working without permits are mandatory under the NJ Uniform Construction Code and can be assessed for up to $2000.
How do you get caught? Typically work done without permits comes up during a home inspection or disclosure prior to a property transaction.
Some projects that absolutely do not need a permit are listed below:
- Painting.
- Residential floor covering.
- Replacing a light fixture without installing new wiring.
- Replacing a plumbing fixture without installing new piping.
Some projects that absolutely require a permit:
- Decks
- Finished Basements
- Kitchen alterations
- Bathroom alterations
- Water heaters
So save yourself a costly penalty and the probability of removing the work for inspections and contact us first.
Code Enforcement office hours are Monday – Friday 7:00 am – 3:30pm. The phone number is 908-204-2506.
But the basement was ALREADY finished when we bought the house!
I believe that if you can prove that the work was done prior to your ownership the “penalty” is only $500 – the fee to obtain a CCO – Certificate of Continuing Occupancy. A CCO still requires inspections – which may include certification by a licensed plumber or electrician or structural engineer in addition to a visual inspection by the township inspectors.
