Part of the challenge in the village, he said, is to help residents to comply with the codes.

"A lot of houses still have building code violations. They have expired permits and even structures that have been built without permits. This department is trying to work with the community to help them comply," he said.

In order to encourage compliance, the village has adopted an amnesty ordinance (97-107) that establishes a procedure to bring additions or repairs which have not received permits or where permits were issued but did not receive mandatory inspections into compliance with the South Florida Building Codes. Those interested in more information about the ordinance should call the village offices.

"This is a big break for the residents who are not in compliance. People should look at it and do it and clean up whatever is pending," LLanos said.

"There are no fines, no penalties. We charge a $60 fee to review the plans. We are trying hard to help people. The doors are open for them and we are here to help them."

Llanos has been in the business of helping the public since 1977 when he graduated from FIU with a degree in structural engineering. He received his professional engineering license in 1981. After being a consultant for 15 years, Llanos decided to get into the municipal building department and into the codes. It was after Hurricane Andrew.

"I wanted to participate in the rebuilding. I felt I wanted to help others. By joining the village, I feel I can serve them to the best of my ability," he said.

In the future, Llanos would like to write a "how to" book specifically geared to homeowners on helping them get through the building process.

"There should be more consultants out there representing homeowners involved in construction projects. Let the homeowners get on with their lives and leave the headaches of building to the professionals," he said.