• Endangering the health and safety of self, family or guests.
• Levying of fines and/or refusal to grant occupancy permit by local building inspection department.
• Civil action by owners against builders.
• Difficulty in selling the home.
• Civil action by future owners or tenants against original owners or builders. (The average home is resold every 5 to 7 years.)
• Difficulty in obtaining mortgage loans or property insurance.
• Loss of building and community values.

Q. What if I am unable to exactly follow the Code?

A.  If it would be difficult to comply with a particular Code provision because of special site or design considerations, then you may submit a petition for variance with the required fees to the State. Your variance must show an equivalence to the Code provision by different means. (Forms are available from your municipality or the Safety and Buildings Division.)

Q.  What if I have a problem with my home?

A.  Every situation is different, but possible actions include:

• Contact the responsible general contractor and'or subcontractor for resolution.
• Contact your homeowner's warranty program, if applicable.
• Contact the local building inspector if the problems are Code-related. (Note that orders may be written against you as the owner.)
• Use the local homebuilder association's arbitration services, if applicable.
• Obtain a consulting engineer or private building inspector's report.
• Contact the Wisconsin Department fo Agriculter, Trade and Consumer Protection (1-800-422-7128) for alteration and addition problems.
• Use the small claims court system.
• Contact an independent mediation/arbitration service.
• Obtain a lawyer.