L&I will launch a Homeowner Assistance Program tomorrow as part of Building Safety Week, which ends Sunday, spokeswoman Gayle Johns said. It's designed "to foster communication and interaction between the public and L&I building-plan reviewers to ensure safe construction projects."

Homeowners who are getting ready to improve their properties will get the chance for one-on-one meetings with nationally certified plan reviewers, who will provide advice on building plans and permits and who will help renovators adjust their projects to meet construction-code requirements.

"In this age of do-it-yourselfers, it becomes extremely important for homeowners to work with the Department of Licenses and Inspections to make sure their residence fully complies with building safety codes," Johns said.

The importance of regulating and enforcing building codes is, unfortunately, often overlooked until a tragedy occurs, she said.

L&I enforces property-maintenance regulations, reviews building plans, and issues building permits.

The Homeowner Assistance Program will run every Saturday beginning tomorrow through at least June, Johns said. Homeowners and their contractors will meet with L&I staff at its eastern district office at Rising Sun Avenue and Benner Street in the Northeast.

Only telephone appointments will be accepted. To schedule one, call 215-686-2436.