Meeting Housing Code Minimums
Nearly every municipality has housing codes that landlords must follow. Most involve the maintenance of your property in ways that ensure the occupants will not be subject to housing conditions that are dangerous, hazardous or detrimental to life, health or safety.
Violations of housing codes are usually dealt with directly by a municipality representative. If a tenant complains to the municipality that you have failed to comply with the local housing code, building inspectors will visit your property.
The inspectors may take action if the property is not being lawfully maintained, such as requiring you to make necessary repairs, pay a fine or both. In extreme cases, such as lack of running water or heat in the winter, the property could be condemned and the tenants told to leave.
To avoid potential violations, ensure you have reviewed your local housing codes. Pick up a copy from your local or state housing offices to keep on file. Many times they are also available on the Internet.
Under most housing codes, residential rental properties must have the following:
- A heating system that is in working order and provides an adequate supply of heat to the property
- Lighting sufficient to allow typical indoor activities
- Adequate ventilation
- Suitable facilities for food preparation and cooking
- Sinks with hot and cold running (and sanitary) water
- A flush toilet
- Facilities for bathing
- A private entrance
- A means of escape in case of fire
- A working smoke alarm (in some cities and states, more than one)
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