I recently purchased a townhome in the Lakeview area of Chicago with the intentions of building a rooftop deck. As the owner of my unit - I am responsible for my own roof-so I know I am taking on the risk.

My question would pertain more toward City Permits. If we apply and can obtain one will an inspector come automatically and inspect our property? Are we required to obtain an inspection? I'd like to get this thing built and then hope no-one comes.

We plan on building everything to code, however we are contemplating on making the deck larger than what we would be approved for on the permit. I think we could only get approval for 100 square feet because we don't have the second set of stairs-at least not yet.

We're trying to convince my neighbor, but she is remodeling the inside of her house right now (without a permit). ;o)

I'm putting a new roof on my property anyway, and the company who is doing the work can do the deck as well and will warranty the roof and deck