If you’ve received a Chicago building violation labeled VT1010, you’re not alone—this is a common one that shows up after Department of Buildings inspections.
In plain English, VT1010 typically means the City is requiring you to schedule (arrange) a final inspection for permitted work related to mechanical ventilation or a warm-air heating system once the work is completed.
What VT1010 usually says (in everyday terms)
VT1010 is often listed as something like:
- “Arrange completed permit inspection.”
- “Arrange mechanical ventilation or warm air heating system final inspection when work completed.”
That wording matters: it’s not always saying the system is broken—it’s often saying the City needs to verify the work was finished correctly and close out the permit with a final inspection.
Why you got hit with VT1010
This violation usually appears when one of these situations happens:
- Work was done under a permit, but the final inspection was never requested.
- A mechanical/ventilation/heating system was altered or installed and the City needs sign-off.
- A permit is still open in the City’s system, and the inspection cycle wasn’t completed.
- A complaint inspection triggered the City to look deeper and they found open permits or missing finals.
Why VT1010 is a big deal (even if the work is already done)
An open permit or missing final inspection can create real problems:
- Delays when you try to sell or refinance
- Issues with insurance claims
- Trouble pulling new permits
- Escalation into additional violations or court if ignored
Bottom line: even if the work is perfect, the City still wants the paperwork and inspection closed out.
How to solve VT1010 (step-by-step)
Here’s the clean, practical way to handle it.
1) Identify the exact permit and scope
Start by confirming:
- Which permit the violation is tied to
- Whether it’s mechanical ventilation (exhaust, make-up air, ducting, etc.) or warm-air heating (furnace, RTU, ductwork, etc.)
- Whether the permit is still active/open
Tip: VT1010 is often tied to a specific inspection record and permit history.
2) Confirm the work is actually complete
Before you schedule a final inspection, make sure:
- The equipment is installed and operational
- Required safety items are in place (clearances, shutoffs, access panels, etc.)
- Any related trades are complete (electrical, gas, structural)
If the work is not complete, scheduling a final too early can lead to a failed inspection and more delays.
3) Schedule the final inspection
To clear VT1010, you generally need to arrange the final inspection for the permitted work.
Depending on the job, you may need:
- Mechanical final inspection
- Ventilation inspection
- Heating / warm-air system final
- Possibly related finals (electrical/gas) if the scope requires it
4 Prepare for the inspector (so you pass the first time)
Common reasons finals fail:
- Work doesn’t match the approved plans
- Missing access to equipment (blocked mechanical rooms, locked areas)
- Incomplete related trade sign-offs
- Missing documentation (manufacturer specs, approvals, etc.)
A quick pre-inspection walkthrough saves time and money.
5) Close out the permit and get confirmation
After you pass:
- Make sure the City’s record updates to show the permit is finalized/closed
- Keep copies of inspection results for your files
This is what actually prevents the violation from resurfacing later.
What if there was work done without a permit?
Sometimes VT1010 shows up because the City believes permit work should exist (or existed) but the record is messy.
If work was done without a permit, the solution may involve:
- Pulling an after-the-fact permit (where allowed)
- Providing documentation and getting the job inspected
- Correcting any non-compliant work before final sign-off
This is where having an expeditor can save you weeks.
How long do you have to fix VT1010?
Your notice will usually state a compliance window. Don’t wait—Chicago violations can escalate, and open permits can create expensive surprises later.
Need help clearing VT1010 fast?
If you want to clear VT1010 with minimal back-and-forth, the goal is simple:
- Identify the permit
- Confirm the scope
- Schedule the correct final inspection
- Pass the first time
- Close the permit in the City’s system
If you’d like, tell me:
- The property type (single-family, multi-unit, commercial)
- Whether this is heating, ventilation, or both
- What stage the work is in (not started / in progress / completed)
…and I’ll tailor a “pass-first-time” checklist for your exact situation.
Next steps
- Call us directly for violation solutions services.
