JERSEY CITY – While city officials are touting a new inspection process that would make sure homes are compliant with zoning regulations before they can be sold, some real estate people say it will cause havoc.
The city Planning Board is expected to approve the measure at its Tuesday (Jan. 20) meeting.
“This is nothing new,” said City Councilman Khemraj “Chico” Ramchal, who is pushing for the measure in Jersey City. “Most municipalities have it. It was to effect older properties that might have been altered below the radar and sold without a Certificate of Compliance. This eliminates the ‘buyer beware’ when a new owners thought the three apartments (in the building they bought) were legal when in fact they were not.”
The proposed plan would require property owners to get a COC before they can buy or sell a property, make improvements, or obtain permits for demolition. City inspectors would certify that the property is in compliance with city codes.
Real estate brokers, who are expected to attend the Planning Board meeting, claim the measure would create a backlog by delaying sales. – Al Sullivan
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