Structure Professionals offers expert help when you’re facing an Order to Correct
Receiving a Violation Notice and Order to Correct from the City of Philadelphia’s Department of Licenses & Inspections (L&I) can feel overwhelming — especially if you’re unfamiliar with the process or unsure of how serious the issue is. The good news: you’re not alone, and you have options.
At Structure Professionals, we specialize in helping property owners respond to these notices quickly and correctly — saving you the stress, fines, and confusion that often follow.
Don’t Panic — But Don’t Ignore It
A Violation Notice means that L&I found something at your property that does not meet current code or was done without proper permits. This can include things like unapproved renovations, unsafe structural conditions, deteriorating facades, or even missing paperwork.
While the notice may sound intimidating, it’s important to know that not every violation is dangerous or complicated — but all of them require a response. Ignoring it won’t make it go away. In fact, it could lead to mounting fines, city intervention, or even legal action.
“We understand how to work with L&I — and more importantly, how to take the pressure off of you,” says the Structure Professionals team. “Getting a notice isn’t the end of the world. It’s just a signal that something needs to be addressed — and we know exactly how to get it done.”
“Many of the structural problems we find could’ve been addressed years earlier for a fraction of the cost — if someone had just looked into that little crack in the ceiling.”
— Structure Professionals, Philadelphia
What’s in a Violation Notice?
Most notices contain the following:
- A clear description of the violation(s)
- A deadline to correct the issue or file an appeal (usually 30 days)
- Instructions for how to comply or contest the findings
- Information about potential penalties if no action is taken
How Structure Professionals Can Help
This is exactly the kind of situation we handle for our clients — and we’ve done it many times before. Here’s what we do:
- Review and interpret the violation so you fully understand what’s required
- Conduct a structural assessment if the issue involves framing, foundation, or unsafe conditions
- Design a compliant fix that meets L&I requirements
- Coordinate and oversee the repairs, or work directly with your contractor
- Manage communication with L&I, including submitting plans or reports as needed
- Schedule and prepare for reinspection to help close out the violation quickly
Fun Fact
Homes built between 1950–1980 in the Philly suburbs often used undersized joists and beams, especially in finished basements or over large spans without sufficient mid-span support.
Why Time Matters
Most notices give property owners 30 days to either fix the issue or file an appeal. That’s a firm deadline — not a suggestion. After that window closes, the city may impose daily fines or additional reinspection fees. In extreme cases, the city may even take corrective action themselves — then bill you for it.
Responding promptly not only keeps you in compliance — it helps you stay in control of who does the work, how it’s done, and what it costs.
When to Call a Structural Engineer
You should involve a structural engineering firm if your violation includes:
- Load-bearing walls removed without a permit
- Foundation cracking or visible structural damage
- Improper framing, sagging floors, or unsafe decks
- Anything labeled “Unsafe” or “Imminently Dangerous”
Pro Tip
“Cosmetic patching without understanding the cause is like painting over rust — it doesn’t solve the problem. Always start with structure first.”
Protect Your Property — and Your Peace of Mind
Getting a violation notice can be unsettling, but it’s also an opportunity to correct a problem before it gets worse. With Structure Professionals on your side, you don’t have to navigate city codes or construction requirements alone.
We’ll handle the process, communicate with L&I on your behalf, and make sure everything gets resolved the right way — so you can move forward with confidence.
Helpful Resources for Property Owners
- The Philadelphia Code is available online at www.phila.gov under the “Open Government” section.
- Department of Licenses & Inspections (L&I): How violations and inspections work
- L&I Review Board: How to file an appeal
- Public Interest Law Center: Resources for tenants and property owners
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