What we do
The Department of Licenses and Inspections (L&I) helps people comply with building safety standards and other code requirements. Contractors, business and property owners, landlords, and tenants are all served by L&I.
As part of our mission, we:
- Inspect construction projects so they meet construction and fire codes.
- Inspect higher-risk properties for compliance with fire codes.
- Respond to complaints regarding many code violations.
- Inspect, monitor, seal, and demolish vacant and/or dangerous buildings.
- Review plans and issue permits according to building, zoning, plumbing, and electrical codes.
- Issue trade and business licenses.
- Help landlords and tenants understand their responsibilities.
Connect
| Address |
1401 John F. Kennedy Blvd.
11th Floor Philadelphia, PA 19102 |
|---|---|
|
Phone:
311
|
Announcements
Online meetings now available for help with permit & license submissions
You can now schedule an online meeting with L&I representatives to get help with:
- Submitting a new permit application.
- Submitting a new rental license application.
- Rental license renewal.
All online meetings will be conducted over Zoom. To sign-up, complete the appointment request form.
You will receive an email from L&I with the Zoom link the day before your scheduled appointment.
New energy requirements for new construction and additions now in effect
All permit applications for new construction and additions filed on or after April 1, 2021, must include the following:
- A separate energy compliance plan depicting the full building thermal envelope. The plan must provide the necessary detail to confirm compliance with applicable Energy Code provisions, including:
- Insulation.
- Continuous air barrier.
- Window/door schedule with fenestration rating and areas.
- Projects utilizing the prescriptive method complying with the Philadelphia Energy Conservation Code requires a COMcheck or REScheck Compliance Certificate signed by the design professional.
- Mechanical and/or Lighting Compliance Certificates must also be provided where a mechanical or lighting system is selected as an additional energy efficiency package.
Note: The requirements for compliance certificates do not apply to projects utilizing the PA Alternative Residential Energy Provisions.
