All Forum Posts by: Prashanth Mahakali

Ryan,

I can give you an Architect's perspective. In general, if you know for sure that its an illegal unit, dont rent it out. However, you could pull the historic records of the building and see if at any point of time it was a 3 flat. Since that time as long as the use has not changed dramatically or if no one pulled a building permit to deconvert, you can claim the legal use of the third unit. You can get these records by filing for a freedom of Information request with the City of Chicago. Get a building permit to comply with the latest building code. This is particularly important related to exits. You need a second means of exit from the third floor. Most investors do not consider the building code implications and the educated investor is the one who walks away with the most profit. 

Let me know if this helps.

Prashanth

I do work in the suburbs. Please let me know about your needs and am happy to help. 

Prashanth

Hello Canotone, I can help you with the whole process and also help assemble a team of people to execute the project. Please let me know how we can get in touch with each other? I am ready to help you with your project. Thank you. Prashanth Mahakali, Architect

Zack,

I am happy to assist your client with their project. I will write to your email if that works.

Prashanth

Hello Joy, I may be able to help you. I am an architect and have dealt with coach houses in the past. I am also familiar with the permit process. Prashanth

Geoff,

I am an architect here in Chicago and would love to give you a proposal based on the scope of work. 

Prashanth

please Google "city oF Chicago building department phone numbers'. You should find the numbers and email addresses of people at the easy permit desk. They can only give you an overview as to what needs to be done. I am happy to consult with you to guide you but if you already have an Architect, please have him/her call the EPP desk or contact someone at the building department. I would encourage you to trust the professional of record in this matter. Good luck!

Hello everyone,

I am an Architect here in Chicago and we specialize in building violations and also work with several attorneys who used to be with the City of Chicago. With regard to violations, in Chicago,,you buy a property, you buy the violations. We often look at multiple resources to find about violations and we also know what to look within the violations. A quick call to the easy permit desk at the city of Chicago is also helpful. We are also part of the "due diligence team" of several investors. Being an investor myself, I know what to look for and sometimes the violations do NOT require drawings. Please reach out to me if you need assistance and my team is ready to help! 

Prashanth Mahakali, AIA