How should I respond to a code enforcement letter?
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How should I respond to a code enforcement letter?
My family and I moved into a new neighborhood about 4 weeks ago. We received a letter today from the code enforcer which accused my husband of running a vehicle repair business from his garage. The next door neighbor reported that there have been 4-5 vehicles in my driveway in the evening and/or on weekends and has once heard a “grinding” noise and an air compressor. Would it be better to have an attorney draft a response to this letter? My husband and I are both professionals and these kind of accusations may jeopardize our careers.
Asked on April 30, 2011 under Real Estate Law, Pennsylvania
Answers:
M.T.G., Member, New York Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 12 years ago | Contributor
If you are in violation of a City or county code - or if you are being accused of being in violation I should say - then having an attorney look in to the situation could be the best thing for you to do. These kind of code violations can be very expensive if you are found to be in violation. And if you think that they will hurt your professional reputations then it is a good choice by you to nip the matter in the bud with all involved. Your neighbors will only continue to harass you. Now, if your husband and you are tinkering - not even saying you are running a business because I a sure that your area is not zoned for it - with repairs as a hobby you need to be cognizant of noise pollution and the rights of your neighbors to enjoy their homes without it. Good luck.
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