§ 12-6. Standard of care for vacant property.

(a)

The standard of care, subject to approval by the director, shall include, but is not limited to:

(1)

Protective treatment: All exterior surfaces, including but not limited to, doors, door and window frames, cornices, porches, trim, balconies, decks and fences, shall be maintained in good condition, weather tight and in such condition so as to prevent the entry of rodents and other pests. All exposed wood or metal surfaces subject to rust or corrosion, other than decay resistant woods or surfaces designed for stabilization by oxidation shall be protected from the elements and against decay or rust by periodic application of weather coating materials such as paint or similar surface treatment. All surfaces with rust or corrosion shall be stabilized and coated to inhibit future rust and corrosion. Oxidation stains shall be removed from exterior surfaces. All siding, cladding and masonry joints, as well as those between the building envelope and the perimeter of windows, doors and skylights, shall be maintained weather resistant and water tight.

(2)

Premises identification: The property shall have address numbers placed in a position to be plainly legible and visible from the street or road fronting the property. These numbers shall contrast with their background. Address numbers shall be Arabic numerals or alphabet letters. Numbers shall be a minimum of four inches (102mm) high with a minimum stroke width of one-half inch (12.7mm). All buildings shall display a vacant building identification placard as required by the director.

(3)

Structure: All structural members and foundation shall be maintained free from deterioration, and shall be capable of safely supporting the imposed loads.

(4)

Exterior walls: All exterior walls shall be kept in good condition and shall be free from holes, breaks, and loose or rotting materials. Exterior walls shall be maintained weatherproof and properly surface coated where necessary to prevent deterioration.

(5)

Roof and drainage: The roof and flashing shall be sound, tight and not have defects that admit rain. Roof drainage shall be adequate to prevent accumulation, dampness or deterioration. Roof drains, gutters and downspouts shall be maintained in good repair, free from obstructions and operational.

(6)

Decorative features: All cornices, belt courses, corbels, applications, wall facings and similar decorative features shall be maintained in good repair with proper anchorage and in a safe condition.

(7)

Overhang extensions and awnings: All overhang extensions including, but not limited to canopies, marquees, signs, awnings, and fire escapes shall be maintained in good repair and be properly anchored and supported as to be kept in a sound and safe condition.

(8)

Stairways, decks, porches and balconies: Every exterior stairway, deck, porch and balcony, and all appurtenances attached thereto, shall be maintained structurally sound, in good repair, with proper anchorage and capable of supporting the imposed loads.

(9)

Chimneys and towers: All chimneys, cooling towers, smoke stacks and similar appurtenances shall be maintained structurally safe and sound, and in good repair.

(10)

Handrails and guards: Every exterior handrail and guard shall be firmly fastened and capable of supporting normally imposed loads and shall be maintained in good condition.

(11)

Window, skylight and door: Every window, storefront, skylight and exterior door part, including but not limited to the frame, the trim, window screens and hardware shall be kept in sound condition and good repair. All broken or missing windows shall be replaced with glass and secured in a manner so as to prevent unauthorized entry. All broken or missing doors shall be replaced with new doors which shall be secured to prevent unauthorized entry. All glass shall be maintained in sound condition and good repair. All exterior doors, door assemblies and hardware shall be maintained in good condition and secured. Locks at all exterior doors, exterior attic access, windows, or exterior hatchways shall tightly secure the opening. Windows and doors shall not be secured by plywood or other similar means mounted on the exterior except as a temporary securing measure, and the same shall be removed within a period of time designated by the director.

(12)

Basement hatchways and windows: Every basement hatchway shall be maintained to prevent the entrance of rodents, rain and surface drainage water. Every basement window that is openable shall be supplied with rodent shields, storm windows or other approved protection against entry of rodents.

(b)

All repairs shall be subject to approval by the director. All required permits and final inspections prior to and/or following repairs shall be in accordance with applicable laws and rules. Historic properties and properties within designated historic districts are additionally subject to all applicable rules and regulations as codified in chapter 35 of the Code.

(c)

Failure to maintain the vacant property to the standard of care specified by the department is a violation of this article.

(Ord. No. 2014-06-19-0461, § 1, 6-19-14)