Building codes are a crucial aspect of ensuring public health, safety, and welfare in rental properties. As a property manager, it’s your responsibility to ensure that your properties are up to code and safe for your tenants. In this post, we’ll discuss common housing code violations that property managers should be aware of, as well as who checks for housing code violations and how to know if your property is up to code.
Common Housing Code Violations for Rental Properties:
- Electrical problems such as faulty wiring, ungrounded outlets, and outdated electrical systems.
- Mechanical issues like improper notching or boring of framing, inadequate combustion air or makeup air, and improper venting of appliances.
- Plumbing violations include missing nail plates and improper support of piping, improper drainage, improper installation of fixtures, and improper venting of plumbing systems.
- Missing handrails alongside steps and issues with decks frequently violate housing codes if they are at an improper height, not properly fastened, have an inadequate gripping surface, or are missing entirely.
- Improper flashing on windows and doors, can lead to water damage and create conditions conducive to mold growth.
- Statistics show that code violations can cause significant issues and pose a threat to public health and safety. According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), electrical fires caused over 45,000 fires, 500 deaths, and over 1,400 injuries in 2019 alone. In addition, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that carbon monoxide poisoning caused an average of 430 deaths per year between 2010 and 2015. These statistics highlight the importance of ensuring that your rental properties are up to code and safe for your tenants.
Who Checks for Housing Code Violations?
City or county code inspectors are responsible for performing building code inspections. They have the authority to make someone correct or repair any code violations and are looking for health, safety, and other matters based on the local code adopted by the alderman or municipal council. Most residential codes are enforced at the local level, and most violations are reported by owners or occupants of the dwelling to a local building or fire department.
As a property manager, it’s essential to be aware of the code enforcement agencies in your area and understand the codes and regulations that apply to your properties. By doing so, you can ensure that your rental properties are in compliance with local codes and regulations and avoid potential fines and penalties for code violations.
How to Know if Your Rental Property is Up to Code?
To know if your rental property is up to code, you can review the permits issued and approved by the local jurisdiction for the property. It’s important to note that building codes and regulations can change over time, and what was once considered up to code may no longer be compliant with current standards. As a result, it’s crucial to stay up-to-date with local building codes and regulations.
Additionally, you can contact your local code enforcement agency and request an inspection of your rental property. The inspector can evaluate your property for compliance with local codes and regulations and provide you with a report of any violations that need to be addressed. You can also hire a licensed contractor or architect to evaluate your rental property and identify any code violations. They can provide you with a detailed report of any violations and provide recommendations for bringing your property up to code.
In conclusion, as a property manager, it’s your responsibility to ensure that your rental properties are up to code and safe for your tenants. It’s important to be aware of common housing code violations, who checks for housing code violations, and how to know if your property is up to code. By staying informed and taking proactive steps to address any violations, you can ensure that your rental properties are safe, secure, and in compliance with all applicable codes and regulations.
FAQ: Common Questions and Answers for Property Managers Regarding Building Code Violations in Rental Properties.
Why is it important for rental properties to be up to code?
Ensuring that rental properties are up to code is essential for protecting the safety and well-being of tenants and complying with local building codes and regulations. Failure to comply with building codes can result in fines, penalties, and even legal action.
What are the consequences of code violations in rental properties?
Code violations in rental properties can cause significant issues and pose a threat to public health and safety. They can also result in fines, penalties, and even legal action for property managers who fail to address them promptly.
Can code violations in rental properties be fixed?
Yes, code violations in rental properties can be fixed. Property managers should take prompt action to address any violations that are identified to ensure the safety and well-being of their tenants and avoid potential fines and penalties for non-compliance.
What should property managers do if code violations are discovered in their rental properties?
Property managers should take immediate action to correct any code violations that are discovered in their rental properties. This may involve hiring a licensed contractor or other professional to complete the necessary repairs or renovations. Property managers should also communicate with their tenants about the necessary repairs and ensure that they are aware of any temporary disruptions or inconveniences that may arise during the repair process.
What should property managers do to prevent code violations in their rental properties?
Property managers can take several steps to prevent code violations in their rental properties, including regular inspections of the property to identify potential hazards, keeping up-to-date with local building codes and regulations, and ensuring that all repairs and renovations are completed to code by licensed professionals.
Are property managers responsible for correcting code violations in rental properties?
Yes, property managers are responsible for correcting code violations in their rental properties. They must ensure that their properties are in compliance with local building codes and regulations to ensure the safety and well-being of their tenants. Failure to address code violations promptly can result in fines, penalties, and even legal action.
What should property managers do if they are unsure about local building codes and regulations?
Property managers should seek out resources and support to help them understand and comply with local building codes and regulations. This may involve consulting with a licensed contractor, architect, or code enforcement agency, or attending training sessions and workshops offered by local government agencies or industry associations.
