You're supposition and your anecdote don't tell the same story. Overly restrictive codes and under the table kick backs are two entirely different issues. They

You're supposition and your anecdote don't tell the same story. Overly restrictive codes and under the table kick backs are two entirely different issues. They may stem from the same pot, but one is legal red tape and the other is clearly illegal. That being said, you may be right, but I don't see anything that supports the parent comment's assertion about it being widespread enough to affect decisions around making repairs, especially in situations where the building is structurally not sound.