Rep. Valihura and Councilman Weiner,
Below is the information you requested (building permit #2007-14128 / Code Enforcement case #2008-01282)
"Please give us an accounting by email as to what problems they observed, the violations that were found"
The Department inspected the site a total of seven times between January and February. Five of those inspections failed. Reasons for failure included water in the footings (for handicap ramp), footings not according to plan, and certain framing issues. At this point, the framing issues have been resolved to the Department's satisfaction. The footings have only partially passed inspection. We are expecting additional documentation regarding footer detail. Although the plan presented to us did not show plumbing and heating work, our inspections revealed that plumbing and heating work was done. This type of work requires permits. The scope of the work is minimal and (based on what we've observed) will likely pass inspection after a few minor changes. Obviously we are requiring the applicant to have a licensed contractor (as appropriate) obtain the necessary permits and pay the associated fees.
"...the mechanism that will be used to address those violations, what will be done to correct them and the timing that the homeowner has to take corrective action"
Because plumbing and heating work was done without permits, a Stop Work Order (for plumbing & heating only) has been issued and posted at the site (see attached photos). A Rule to Show Cause hearing is scheduled for 03/25 (see attached violation notice). If all violations on the notice are resolved prior to 03/25, the hearing will be cancelled. If the violations are not resolved prior to 03/25, then the hearing will occur. Members of the public may attend the hearing but will not have the opportunity to comment. If the hearing does occur, the Hearing Officer will review all violations on the notice and provide an opportunity for the person to defend his/her conduct. Within twenty days after the hearing, the Hearing Officer renders a written decision informing the person of the Department's decision and detailing the reasons for any adverse action. The "timing that the homeowner has to take corrective action" is at the discretion of the Hearing Officer.
"any penalties that are or might be involved "
The hearing fee is $300. Additional penalties may be assessed up to $1,000 per day for each day a violation continues to exist.
I hope this helps. Let me know if you need more information.
Mark Veasey (via email 3/13/08)
New Castle County Code Enforcement
