AC-T: Inspectors cite unpermitted school construction

Here’s an excerpt from the Asheville Citizen-Times article:

The Buncombe County Permits and Inspections Department has filed complaints against 16 contractors, alleging they did work at county schools without obtaining the required permits.

Discovery of the violations prompted a two-month project now under way which will include inspection of all 42 schools for potential safety problems, said Bob Haynes, commercial plan reviewer with the county.

Compliance with building and electrical codes by getting the required permits and inspections is needed to ensure the safety of structures, he said.

“Everything that’s regulated in the code has to do with safety,” Haynes said. “Anything new that is installed requires a permit.”

Buncombe County Schools officials said their schools are safe, but they are cooperating with county inspectors as they scour the schools for possible code violations.

Haynes described the projects that were done without permits as minor and estimated their number at 100 over three years. They include the installation of lighting fixtures, electrical outlets, computer data cables and a water heater, replacement of handrails and construction of a storage shed.

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Jake Frankel is an award-winning journalist who enjoys covering a wide range of topics, from politics and government to business, education and entertainment.

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