Trumpy:
Here in New Jersey, we have state lic for electricians, plumbers, and recently 'home improvement contractors', along with a myrid list of other lic. professionals.
The State Board of Examiners (Elec & Plumb) take a strong stick to those that they CATCH. Unfortunatley, few.
Yes, we have 'meat cutters', we have handymen, we have 'sparkies' that moonlight/sidework. We have homeowner DIY's, we have neighbors, & Lord knows who else.
As an AHJ, I can say, it's tough to catch them. Drive past a strip mall & notice NEON that wasn't there the day before. Go in & look at it (don't touch), talk to the owner.. 'Oh, the "sign guy" put it up last night' ask about permit (Ha Ha) then write a $500 fine.
As to the resi work, it goes on all the time. Usually it shows up before a real estate closing or CCO inspection.
I'm glad (??) we're not the only place this happens.
John
PS: Morticians are State Lic.; anyone know of a 'handyman' enbalmer for a bargain price?
[This message has been edited by HotLine1 (edited 07-26-2006).]