Supervisor Anthony Santino reveals amnesty program for property owners

Town of Hempstead Supervisor Anthony Santino announced at a press conference on Monday that the town is instituting an amnesty program that will waive penalty fees for property owners whose houses have been improved without the required building permits.

Property improvements such as home additions, garages, kitchen renovations, pools and other projects require documents called “maintain permits” from the town’s building department. For homes that have work done without the owner(s) receiving the required documents prior to construction, the fee is normally twice that of the cost for homeowners that secure the permit before starting the work.

“We’re inviting residents to make a New Year’s resolution to get building permits for construction projects that were completed on their properties without first securing needed permits,” Santino said. “To help make this resolution easier, we are slashing the cost for permits for already completed home improvements by 50 percent. It is important to secure building permits and have associated inspections performed to ensure that work has been performed properly and that residents’ homes are safe.”

The amnesty program was scheduled to go into effect on Jan. 11 pending approval at the town board meeting on Jan. 10, and would run until May 9. Homeowners can file for a building permit application to maintain their existing home improvements without having to pay the additional fee for having work done without the proper documents.

“Now is the time to make a New Year’s resolution to get your building permits for home improvements that lack required approvals,” Santino said. “Making good on this resolution will help save you money while keeping your family safe and secure in your house.”

According to a press release, the costs of building permits are determined based on the value of the upgrades and construction being done to the home. Under the program, residents could save as much as $1,500 compared to the cost of securing permission without the amnesty program.

Santino said the permits are in place to make sure work is done safely. He cautioned that faulty electrical work could create a fire hazard, improperly installed water heaters could result in carbon monoxide poisoning and a flawed plumbing job could result in homes flooding and water being contaminated.

“This building permit amnesty program will save homeowners money and encourage them to get the required permits,” said Councilwoman Dorothy Goosby. “It’s a good program, and I encourage everyone who is eligible to take advantage.”

According to Councilman Anthony D’Esposito, homeowners looking to sell their houses can’t do so without the permits. “Failing to get your maintain permits now can cause a lot of headaches when you decide to sell your home,” he said. “Taking care of outstanding permits now can make life easier when it comes time to list your home for sale.”