What is a common defense property owners might use against code violations?

Claiming the code is improperly applied or that the violation is unsubstantiated is a common defense strategy used by property owners against code violations. This defense hinges on the argument that the enforcement of the code is not being executed correctly in their specific case or that the evidence supporting the violation is lacking or questionable.

When property owners assert that the code has been applied incorrectly, they may point to factors such as changes in interpretation over time, discrepancies in measurements, or argue that their property does not actually fit the criteria for the alleged violation. Additionally, if they claim that the violation is unsubstantiated, they can prompt the enforcing agency to present comprehensive evidence to support their claims. This strategy often calls for a detailed examination of the code as well as the facts surrounding the alleged violations and places the burden on the enforcing authority to prove their case.

Other defenses, like claiming no violations were reported, ignorance of the law, or that the code itself is too strict, can be less effective. They may not adequately address the legality of the enforcement action and often do not provide a strong basis for contesting the violation itself. This makes the chosen answer not only a valid legal defense but also a strategic approach in code enforcement disputes.