Because nothing ruins your day like a violation stapled to your front door.
If you’ve just discovered an Unsafe or ID Code Violation Notice from Philadelphia’s Department of Licenses & Inspections (L&I) posted at your building, take a breath, and then take action. These violations are serious, time-sensitive, and can lead to catastrophic consequences if ignored.
At Comporth, we specialize in helping property owners and developers navigate Philadelphia’s permitting maze, and that includes the high-stakes world of Make-Safe Permits. Here’s what you need to know to stay compliant and protect your investment.
1. This Is an Emergency, Not a Suggestion
An Unsafe or Imminently Dangerous Code Violation isn’t a slap on the wrist. It means your building poses a danger to its occupants and the public. You have 10 days to submit a “Make-Safe” Building Permit and begin addressing the issues, not to start renovating or making aesthetic improvements.
This permit is strictly for stabilization and safety repairs, think bracing a collapsing wall, repairing fire-damaged structural elements, or securing a crumbling façade. Anything outside of that scope (like redoing the kitchen or updating finishes) requires a completely separate Building Permit once the property is recorded safe.
Bottom line: Do not delay. The clock starts ticking the moment the notice is posted.
2. The Cost of Ignoring It? Astronomical.
If you fail to respond to a Make-Safe Notice within the required window, the city may take matters into its own hands, and you’ll be footing the bill. Non-compliance can result in:
- Stop work orders
- Fines
- Liens
- Forced demolition of the building
Yes, demolition. If the city determines your property is a threat to public safety and you haven’t acted, they are legally authorized to demolish it, then charge you for the full cost, which can easily exceed $100,000.
We’ve seen owners lose not just their buildings, but their businesses and long-term investments due to inaction or red tape delays. Don’t let that be you.
3. You Might Not Get a Heads-Up
One of the most shocking parts of the Make-Safe process? The city isn’t obligated to notify you beyond the posted violation. There’s no email. No phone call. No certified letter. Just a paper notice taped to your door.
If you miss it, you might not even realize you’re in violation until you’re hit with penalties, or worse, show up to find your building surrounded by a demolition crew.
Pro tip: If you own multiple properties or are managing remotely, it’s worth investing in regular inspections or hiring a local expediter (hi, that’s us) to keep tabs on notices and potential violations. Philadelphia doesn’t wait for you to catch up.
4. What Comporth Does (So You Don’t Have to Panic)
When you partner with Comporth, we act fast. Our team of experts can:
- Interpret the violation and determine required scope of work
- Coordinate with licensed engineers, contractors, and architects
- Prepare and file the Make-Safe Permit within the city’s 10-day window
- File an appeal if more time to comply is warranted depending on the circumstance
- Liaise with L&I inspectors to schedule walkthroughs and ensure compliance
- Keep your project moving, so you’re not stuck in limbo
Whether it’s shoring up a building after a fire or stabilizing a vacant shell after a storm, we’ve handled it, and we know how to do it fast and right.
5. After the Emergency Comes the Opportunity
Once your building is deemed safe and the remediation work is signed off, we can help you transition smoothly into restoration or redevelopment, including:
- Filing permits for renovations or change-of-use
- Preparing zoning documents for upgrades or expansions
- Building a longer-term plan to add value to your property
We’re here to help you not just survive the crisis, but use it as a chance to build something better.
Need Help Now?
If you’re dealing with an Unsafe or ID Code Violation, or worried one might be coming, don’t wait. Let us handle the paperwork, the coordination, and the city red tape, so you can focus on protecting your property and your peace of mind.
📞 Call us at 215.650.6449
📧 Or contact us here to get immediate support from the Comporth team.
