Frequently Asked Questions:

Developing Your Property
Citizens Should Avoid Unlicensed Contractors

Citizens who are planning a home improvement project like a deck or a new bathroom should be aware of hiring unlicensed contractors.

According to the Council of Better Business Bureaus, the building contractor industry is one that has generated many complaints. Unlicensed contractors might be uninsured and unfamiliar with building codes. If a project does not comply with building and zoning codes, it will most likely have to be removed or repaired.

Those who are looking to start a project can avoid hiring unlicensed contractors by watching for "red flags." These include unsolicited phone calls or visits, high-pressure sales pitches or sales tactics, large down payments, unwillingness to sign a written contract, and unverifiable insurance or licensing information.

There are ways to insure that a contractor is both licensed and dependable. These include soliciting bids from at least three contractors, contacting the City Inspection Services Office to check out any contractors that submit bids, having an attorney review any documents before you sign them, insisting upon a written warranty on all materials and work, and withholding final payment until the entire project is finished and inspected.

To find out if a contractor has a current license, call Cape Girardeau Inspection Services at 573-339-6328. Recognized construction industry associations, such as the National Association of the Remodeling Industry (703-575-1100), the National Association of Homebuilders (800-368-5242), and Associated Builders and Contractors (888-422-2277) can also help recommend a reputable contractor.

Inspection Services Division
Minimum Property Standards

Minimum Property Standards are designed to protect the public health, safety and welfare in all existing structures, residential and nonresidential, and on all existing premises. The standards establish minimum requirements and standards for premises, structures, buildings, equipment, and facilities for light, ventilation, space, heating, sanitation, protection from the elements, life safety, safety from fire and other hazards, and for safe and sanitary maintenance. Fixing a violation is the responsibility of owners, operators, and occupants. The standards also regulate the occupancy and use of existing structures and premises and provide for administration, enforcement and penalties.

Anyone within the City of Cape Girardeau may make a Minimum Property Standards complaint. The complaint should be in the nature of, and relate to, health, sanitation, or safety. Some situations that may fall under the Minimum Property ordinance are:

1. Properties perceived to have faulty electrical, plumbing, or heating problems.
2. Properties open to the elements.  
3. Properties in a state of dilapidation, deterioration, or decay.

The items listed above are by no means exclusive. If you have a property maintenance concern or a complaint you can print a online complaint form . Complaints dealing with the structures and buildings should be directed to the Inspections Services Office at 573-339-6328, or visit the office in person at the First Floor of City Hall (401 Independence). Complaints dealing with weeds, trash, and other problems around the property should be directed to the Police Department, Nuisance Abatment at 573-339-6311.