Chicago Landlord

Not sure if anyone reading this blog has a vacant building, but if you do you need to be aware of a new proposed ordinance in city council. Alderman Balcer has proposed an ordinance that will give property owners jail time if they do not properly secure their vacant buildings, see the article link above. The city wants to crack down on derelict and unsecured buildings after the south side vacant building fire that killed two fireman. This ordinance would cover all properties including vacant land, two flats and commercial buildings. The city of Chicago does offer a vacant building registry, for $250 dollars you can get notified of 311 calls and code violations. It is hard to know if that is in a property owners best interest or not. I think if you do not live near a vacant property that you own, or at least have dependable neighbors to keep you updated, I would register the building so you know what is going on. You will be help responsible.
Here is a link the city registry: https://ipiweb.cityofchicago.org/VBR/