Getting a Chicago building violation with the code NC2011 can feel intimidating—especially because it usually points to a serious compliance issue: work being done without the right permit paperwork and/or professional plans.
In plain English, NC2011 is commonly used when the City says work was performed (or allowed to be performed) without submitting required plans prepared, signed, and sealed by a licensed professional (typically an architect/engineer), and without proper permitting.
What NC2011 usually means (simple explanation)
NC2011 is often described as:
- “Plans & permits required – contractor.”
- “Performed or allowed work to be performed without submitting plans prepared, signed and sealed by …”
Translation: the City believes work happened (or is happening) that should have had approved plans on file and the correct permit(s) pulled before starting.
Why you got hit with NC2011
NC2011 commonly shows up in situations like:
- A contractor started work before permits were issued
- The scope of work required architect/engineer-stamped drawings, but none were submitted
- The job went beyond “repair/replace” and crossed into alteration/structural/mechanical work
- A complaint inspection (neighbor/tenant) triggered a visit and the inspector saw active construction
- The property has a history of open permits/previous work and the City sees unapproved changes
Why NC2011 is a big deal
This code can snowball fast because it’s not just about a small fix—it’s about legal authorization to do the work.
If ignored, NC2011 can lead to:
- Stop-work pressure and repeat inspections
- Higher fees (including potential penalties)
- Delays in selling, refinancing, or leasing
- Court escalation depending on the case and timeline
How to solve NC2011 (step-by-step)
The fastest path is usually: confirm the scope → get the right plans → pull the right permit → schedule inspections → close it out.
1) Confirm what work the City is citing
Start by identifying:
- The exact location (unit/floor/rear/roof/basement)
- The trade(s) involved (structural, electrical, plumbing, HVAC, etc.)
- Whether the work is complete or still in progress
This matters because the solution depends on whether it’s a small interior alteration vs. structural work vs. multi-trade renovation.
2) Stop the “paper gap” (plans + permit strategy)
NC2011 usually means you need to get compliant on paperwork.
Depending on the scope, you may need:
- Architectural plans (signed/sealed)
- Engineering drawings (signed/sealed) for structural/mechanical elements
- A code review approach (to avoid rejections and rework)
Then you’ll typically need to:
- Submit plans to the City
- Apply for the correct permit type
3) Correct any work that doesn’t match code or what can be permitted
Sometimes the City will allow an “as-built” approach; other times you’ll need to:
- Open walls/ceilings for inspection
- Replace non-compliant materials
- Bring stair/guard/egress/fire items up to code
The goal is to make the work permit-able and inspect-able.
4) Pull permits and schedule the right inspections
Once the permit is issued, you’ll need to schedule inspections that match the scope (examples):
- Framing/structural
- Electrical rough/final
- Plumbing rough/final
- Mechanical rough/final
- Final building inspection
Passing inspections is what turns the violation from “open” to “complied.”
5) Get proof of compliance and keep it on file
After compliance:
- Confirm the City’s system shows the violation as complied/closed
- Save permit paperwork, approved plans, and inspection results
This protects you later (sale/refi/insurance/tenant disputes).
What if the contractor caused the violation?
NC2011 is often written in a way that points to the contractor (“plans & permits required – contractor”), but owners still feel the consequences.
If you’re the owner, your best move is to:
- Document the scope and timeline
- Identify who pulled (or didn’t pull) permits
- Get a compliance plan in motion immediately
How long do you have to fix NC2011?
Your notice will list a compliance window (often tight). The sooner you start the plan/permit process, the better—because plan prep + City review can take time.
Need help clearing NC2011 without wasting weeks?
NC2011 is one of those violations where speed comes from doing things in the right order.
If you want, send me:
- Property type (single-family, multi-unit, commercial)
- What work was done (kitchen/bath, basement, rear porch, HVAC, etc.)
- Whether permits were pulled at all
- Whether work is open (walls exposed) or already finished
…and I’ll write you a custom compliance checklist you can hand to your contractor (or use to manage the process).
Next steps
- Call us directly for violation solutions services.
