Philly Council committee approves measure toughening expediter regulation

A Philadelphia City Council committee has approved tightening regulations on “expediters,” those who help residents and businesses get permits and licenses in the city.  

Expediters require an annual license from the city so they can help people with building and licensing documents, but some “overpromise” and “underdeliver,” said expediter Larry Persofsky.

“There are a number of people who are getting expediter licenses making promises they shouldn’t be making and taking people’s money for the same level of competence I’ve taken 30 years to learn,” he said.

Councilwoman Maria Quiñones-Sánchez said some people need to be put out of the expediting business.

“We have many people who, even after zoning code reform, are charging people for things … who don’t require this type of service,” she said.

Among the requirements of the bill are a specific contract that spells out exactly what the expediter can and cannot do.