Have the code Nazis hit on your car?
I believe in code enforcement, but not when it's invasive and unlawful.
Good stories. Regarding your comment above. Code enforcement might be invasive, even when legal. It depends on how much the inspector finds wrong with your property. Keep in mind that the more he finds wrong, the more he's going to look.
Regarding
"unlawful" inspections, remember, unless he has a complaint that he is responding to, you do not have to submit to inspection. You don't even have to talk to him (but I don't recommend that). Any code inspectors must have a written complaint usually signed by a magistrate or judge to enter your property without your permission
(I say "usually", because I've lived in a jurisdiction where an inspector can take a complaint from your neighbor, and if the code violations are obvious, they can act on the complaint immediately).
It's not often a good idea to screw with the inspectors, either. Remember they have egos too, and if your address comes up with future violations, the inspectors are less likely to cut you some slack.
Personally, I've found that dealing with them honestly and calmly is the best tact to take. They will usually let you slide without a fine or court date, if your cordial. They will even ask how long you need to get the violation corrected, instead of issuing a deadline, if your not a butthead. Remember, he's really only doing his job, it's not personal to him, unless you make it personal.
Keep in mind that the municipality has computers, too, and the inspectors log the outcome of their visit and discussion with you. If your being a *** hole, well, they put that in there, too, and the next time they visit, even if it's a different inspector, they are forearmed with the notes from both the last complaint, and the last inspection, including your conversation with the inspector, and your demeanor.
Don't get me wrong, you don't have to kiss ***, but you don't have to be a jerk-off, either.
