Duties include:

• Examining and approving or rejecting all building permit applications.
• Enforcing zoning laws.
• Inspecting all buildings in the course of construction or repair.
• Review and approve or reject applications for licensing of contractors and sub-contractors.
• Periodic inspections of one- and two-family and multi-family dwellings.
• Conducting inspections of complaint reports regarding permits/licensees, unsafe buildings, heating, ventilation and air conditioning, electrical, plumbing, swimming pool, debris, weeds, abandoned vehicles and fences.
• Issue orders to repair, condemn and demolish.
• Vacate unsafe buildings.
• Seal unsafe buildings.
• Conduct periodic joint inspections with Health, Fire and Air Quality Departments.

Generally speaking, the services provided by the East Chicago Building Department are the same compared to the cities of Hammond and Gary, which are cities designated as first class cities.  For instance, similarities include licensing, permits, condemnations and demolition of unsafe buildings.  Also, it is significant to note that the City of East Chicago has an interrelated Code Enforcement Department, a division in the Building Department, which primarily handles complaints regarding Housing Standards and property maintenance issues.

The diverse staff of the East Chicago Building Department acts as representatives of our community.  Moreover, there are several bilingual employees who speak Spanish, enabling this department to serve the needs of that segment of our diverse community.