illegal deck-should I make it legal?

I had a wood deck (more of a small porch-looks like a fire escape) built by some local handymen off my second floor apartment of a two family brick row house, I also converted a window into a door for access. As a new homeowner, I did not think about the ramifications of doing this illegally. I’m now hoping to get it corrected (rebuilt) into a “legal” metal deck and get the appropriate permits filed. The wood stairs are way too steep and dangerous, I fear getting sued if someone falls off on my property. I’m also concerned about being able to sell the property, though I know people have illegal decks all over the place and most aren’t too concerned. Any thoughts or suggestions on how to remediate this situation and recommendations of code worthy deck builders? Please don’t chastise me, the damage is already done.