With the arrival of summer, many Pinecrest residents are planning home improvement projects and some are unaware that the work may require permits from the Village Planning and Zoning Department.

"Many people think that as long as the work is under $500 they don’t need a permit and that’s not true," said Al Berg, Planning and Zoning administrator. "Some jobs require permits even if they are under $500. However, as a rule, homeowners can make general repairs to their property without a permit if the total cost is less than $500."

Berg said his department has two full-time code compliance officers on staff and two part-time officers. He said the officers do respond when Pinecrest residents call in complaints.

He cautioned property owners against doing work without a required permit, as they run the risk of a citation and possible fine. He added that there is leniency in his department and all property owners are given warnings before any citation is issued. Licensed contractors are ticketed immediately, he said.

"Contractors should know the law and know they need the proper permits," Berg explained.

He urged residents to deal only with licensed and insured contractors when hiring someone to make home improvements and storm repairs. He urged people to stop by Village Hall and pick up brochures on the subject.

"Residents can call us at 305-234-2121 and check on whether a contractor is licensed, insured and carries workman’s compensation," Berg said.

Information on contractors also is available from the State of Florida’s Business and Professional Regulation at 800-342-7940, and from the Miami-Dade County Building and Zoning Department at 305-271-1246, ext. 5.

Berg said it is a good idea to make sure a prospective contractor is a legitimate businessman. He suggested checking references and talking with local building suppliers about the contractor before hiring the individual or firm. And, he adds, get three estimates, don’t take the first bid.

Berg noted that his inspectors try to treat everyone fairly and that they are not out to persecute anyone. He said that most residents try to comply with community standards and that 99 percent of the code compliance problems work themselves out, with only a very small percentage ending with fines.

"If the property owner is making the effort, then we’ll get the problem worked out," he said. "And, if we make a mistake, I’ll be the first to admit it.

"It’s not easy to go from little or no code enforcement that was here before incorporation to full-time code management of the village."