When I bought my first fixer-upper, I didn't realize the peeling paint and wobbly porch railing were more than just eyesores—they were actual code violations. The city inspector pointed out exposed wiring and a missing smoke detector, which meant immediate fines and a rush to get everything up to standard before I could even move in. It's a stressful reality check that turns your dream renovation into a scramble for permits and safety fixes. code violations 7