What can I do about a neighbor’s illegal basment apartment?

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What can I do about a neighbor’s illegal basment apartment?

My next door neighbors have had a basement apartment installed in their home. The zoning in the area is for a single family dwelling only, so I know this was done without permits, or inspections. The tenants park 2 cars in front of my house so I no longer have parking for any guests. Also,I have concerns since the wiring,and other work was done illegally, what happens if their house catches fire? My house is quite close and would more than likely spread to my home. I am pretty sure that the basement does not meet any code for egress as well.

Should I report this, and to whom?

Asked on March 13, 2017 under Real Estate Law, Washington

Answers:

SJZ, Member, New York Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney

Answered 7 years ago | Contributor

Yes, you can report it: report it to your municipality's zoning, housing, and/or building department (the agency in question could go by any of these names; they could also split the function up among more than one department). If there are violations of zoning, building, or safety codes, they could fine your neighbor and/or issue an order that a noncompliant apartment be removed and the tenants vacate. You can contact town/city hall to find out who to report this to.

SJZ, Member, New York Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney

Answered 7 years ago | Contributor

Yes, you can report it: report it to your municipality's zoning, housing, and/or building department (the agency in question could go by any of these names; they could also split the function up among more than one department). If there are violations of zoning, building, or safety codes, they could fine your neighbor and/or issue an order that a noncompliant apartment be removed and the tenants vacate. You can contact town/city hall to find out who to report this to.


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