72 Lake Neighbor's Complaint Illegal DeckAugust 4, 2019
To: Northampton Building Inspector
From: Michelle Serra, 68 Lake St. Florence, MA
Re: 72 Lake St. Florence, MA
My property at 68 Lake St. is next door to 72 Lake St. where a large addition has been constructed with AIP Builders. My concern and complaint is regarding how as part of the larger
project they have been allowed to upgrade and expand a deck off the “garage” that is quite obviously illegal and has nowhere near the required side setback.
My understanding is the side setback for a deck is 7 feet in my neighborhood, but the illegal deck in question was built far closer to my property line. The contractor tells me it is
“grandfathered” because it is existing. I don’t know the exact age of the existing illegal deck, but believe it to be 10-15 years old when there were codes in effect that would make
it illegal. Why would you approve overhauling and expanding this deck with no concern for my property value and privacy?
I want the city to inspect the deck in question, and to provide me with an explanation.
If the city does in fact approve this deck expansion it is an insult to every home owner who goes through the proper channels when building. You would be condoning the illegal construction
of decks, etc. when you allow them to be upgraded and/or expanded when a contractor or homeowner pulls a permit. I understand that there are many garages and outbuildings in the city
that were built before current codes and are legitimately “grandfathered”. It just seems wrong to let someone expand on a structure put in place illegally when codes were in effect.
They have a large yard, and therefore are not limited to having a deck in this location near my boundary.
Thank you for your time.
Michelle Serra
Michelleserra1@icloud.com
413-237-9521