5 Things to Do Immediately After Receiving a Stop Work Order
Quick action can save you time and money when dealing with a stop work order. Here's what you need to know.
The moment you see that red tag on your property can feel like the ground has dropped out from under you. Whether you're a homeowner in the middle of a renovation or a contractor managing a construction project, a stop work order brings everything to a screeching halt—and every day of delay costs money.
But what you do in the first 24-48 hours after receiving a stop work order can dramatically impact how quickly and smoothly the situation is resolved. This guide outlines the five critical steps you should take immediately to minimize delays and get your project back on track.
Critical Warning
Never ignore a stop work order or continue construction after receiving one. This can result in severe penalties, including significant fines (often thousands of dollars per day), criminal charges in some jurisdictions, and forced demolition of work completed after the order was issued.
1. Stop All Work Immediately
The moment you receive a stop work order, all construction activity must cease. This isn't just a suggestion—it's a legal requirement. Inform all contractors, subcontractors, and workers that no further work can be performed until the order is lifted.
While it may be tempting to finish "just one more thing," especially if you're close to completing a phase of the project, doing so can lead to:
- Daily compounding fines
- Criminal penalties in some jurisdictions
- Requirement to demolish any work completed after the order was issued
- Damaged relationship with building officials who will be key to resolving the situation
The only exceptions to this rule are emergency measures specifically authorized by the building department to address immediate safety hazards.
2. Document Everything
Before you do anything else, thoroughly document the current state of your project and all information related to the stop work order:
- Photograph the stop work order itself - Make sure the date, issuing authority, and stated violations are clearly visible
- Take detailed photos of the entire project - Document all areas mentioned in the stop work order as well as the general state of the project
- Gather all project documentation - Collect permits, approved plans, inspection records, contractor licenses, and any communication with building officials
- Record the names and contact information - Note who issued the order and any other officials involved
This documentation will be invaluable for understanding exactly what needs to be addressed and may protect you if there are any disputes about the state of the project when the order was issued.
3. Understand the Exact Violations
Stop work orders are issued for specific reasons, and understanding exactly what violations have been cited is crucial to addressing them properly. Common reasons include:
- Working without required permits
- Deviating from approved plans
- Building code violations
- Zoning violations
- Safety hazards
- Use of unlicensed contractors
If the stop work order doesn't clearly specify the violations, or if you don't fully understand what's being cited, contact the building department immediately for clarification. Ask specific questions:
- What specific code sections are being violated?
- What exactly needs to be corrected to lift the order?
- Are there any immediate safety concerns that need to be addressed?
- What documentation will be required to resolve the issues?
Take detailed notes during this conversation and, if possible, get the clarification in writing via email or official correspondence.
4. Contact Relevant Professionals
Depending on the nature of the violations, you'll likely need professional assistance to resolve the issues. Once you understand what's being cited, immediately contact the appropriate professionals:
- For permit issues: A permit expediter or red tag resolution specialist who understands local permitting processes
- For code violations: Licensed contractors specializing in the relevant areas (electrical, plumbing, structural, etc.)
- For plan deviations: The architect or engineer who created your original plans
- For structural concerns: A structural engineer to evaluate and certify corrections
- For zoning issues: A land use attorney or zoning consultant
Be upfront about the stop work order when contacting these professionals. Explain the urgency of the situation and ask about their experience with similar violations. The right professionals can dramatically speed up the resolution process.
5. Develop and Submit a Correction Plan
Working with your team of professionals, develop a comprehensive plan to address all cited violations. This plan should include:
- Detailed description of all corrections to be made
- Timeline for completing the corrections
- List of contractors who will perform the work
- Any required engineering calculations or revised plans
- Permit applications for any unpermitted work
Submit this correction plan to the building department as quickly as possible, ideally within a few days of receiving the stop work order. Request a meeting with the building official to review the plan and ensure it addresses all concerns.
Be prepared to make adjustments based on feedback from building officials. The goal is to get an approved correction plan that, when implemented, will result in the stop work order being lifted.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When dealing with a stop work order, avoid these common pitfalls that can extend delays:
- Ignoring the order or continuing work - This will only compound your problems and lead to additional penalties
- Becoming confrontational with building officials - Maintaining a professional, cooperative relationship is crucial
- Attempting DIY fixes for serious violations - Some corrections require professional certification to be accepted
- Addressing only some of the violations - All cited issues must be corrected before the order will be lifted
- Rushing corrections without proper documentation - Proper documentation is essential for getting the order lifted
The Path Forward: After Your Initial Response
Once you've taken these immediate steps, the process of resolving the stop work order begins in earnest. This typically involves:
- Obtaining any required permits
- Making the necessary corrections
- Scheduling inspections to verify compliance
- Receiving final approval to resume work
Throughout this process, maintain open communication with building officials and document all interactions. Keep all contractors and subcontractors informed about the status of the resolution process and when they can expect to resume work.
Need Expert Help With a Stop Work Order?
Our team specializes in quickly resolving stop work orders and getting projects back on track. We have relationships with building departments across Florida and can expedite the resolution process.
Conclusion: Time Is of the Essence
When facing a stop work order, quick, decisive action is essential. Every day your project remains halted costs money in terms of delayed completion, idle contractors, potential storage fees, and extended financing costs.
By following these five immediate steps—stopping work, documenting everything, understanding the violations, contacting professionals, and developing a correction plan—you'll position yourself for the fastest possible resolution.
Remember that building departments aren't looking to punish property owners; their primary concern is ensuring safe, code-compliant construction. By demonstrating your commitment to addressing the issues properly, you'll find most building officials willing to work with you to get your project back on track as quickly as possible.