City inspector reports multiple properties for illegal construction without permits

The Special Magistrate Hearing for Building and Construction Enforcement convened on April 17, 2025, in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, to address multiple cases of alleged building code violations. The meeting was presided over by city inspectors who presented various cases involving properties that had reportedly undergone construction work without the necessary permits.

The first case discussed was for the property located at 1412 Southwest Tenth Street, owned by INP Investments, LLC. The property was cited for multiple violations, including unauthorized sewer repairs, sidewalk replacements, and bathroom remodels. Inspector Preston Madvill reported that the case was opened on July 30, 2024, and no permits had been obtained for the work. The city requested that the magistrate find violations and grant the property owner 126 days to comply, with a potential fine of $50 per day thereafter.

Next, the case for 1412 Northeast Fifteenth Avenue, owned by Efrain Cheveret Revocable Trust, was presented. This property faced similar violations for the installation of a shed, carport awning, and fencing without permits. Despite the owner's claims of applying for a variance, the city confirmed that no permits had been issued. The magistrate was asked to grant 126 days for compliance, with the same fine structure as the previous case.

The hearing continued with a case involving 1640 Northwest Fifth Avenue, owned by AIM Partners LLC. This property was cited for unauthorized renovations, including kitchen and bathroom remodels, and the conversion of a garage into a rental unit. The owner, who recently purchased the property, was unaware of the violations. The city requested a compliance period of 126 days, with a daily fine for non-compliance.

Another case addressed was for 1743 Northeast Fifteenth Street, owned by David Kelsey. The property was cited for the installation of a utility shed without permits. The owner was cooperative and in the process of obtaining the necessary permits. The city again requested 126 days for compliance, with a daily fine for any delays.

Lastly, the property at 212017 Northeast Eighteenth Street, owned by Loggerhead Gardens LLC, was cited for significant violations, including the illegal alteration of the building to create two studio apartments with kitchenettes. The city noted that no permits had been pulled for these changes. The owner's representative indicated efforts to rectify the situation by removing the illegal installations. The magistrate was asked to grant 126 days for compliance, with a daily fine for non-compliance.

In conclusion, the Special Magistrate Hearing addressed several cases of building code violations, emphasizing the importance of obtaining proper permits for construction work. The city is actively seeking compliance from property owners to ensure adherence to building regulations, with potential fines for those who fail to comply within the designated timeframe.