Property maintenance has become a bigger concern to area residents. Prior to the adoption of the International Property Maintenance Code (IPMC), the Building Department would receive complaints from tenants and adjacent property owners regarding unsafe conditions; however, the city did not have the enforcement power to take any action. There was a gap between new construction code requirements and what could be defined and enforced as blight. Typically after the original certificate of occupancy there wouldn’t be any legal avenue for inspections on existing properties thus opening the door to unsafe conditions. As properties age and more vacancies occur, this can create problems. The State of Michigan adopted the IPMC by reference, which provides for minimum safety standards for all existing residential and nonresidential structures. In 2007 the City Council adopted the International Property Maintenance Code and the Building Department has been enforcing it on a complaint basis.

When structures are not properly maintained it affects the public health, safety and general welfare, as well as, the aesthetic value of community at large and can have a direct effect on property values. It is our duty to ensure that all residents, including our tenants, are living in safe conditions. Further, many furnaces, water heaters, changes to electric service, etc. are being installed improperly, without permits, creating unsafe and hazardous conditions. The IPMC was adopted to correct unsuitable conditions and to establish mechanisms for continued maintenance of structures thereby promoting health, safety, and welfare of the community and the residents.

Purpose – TheIPMC includes provisions that are intended to maintain a minimum level of safety and sanitation for both the general public and the occupants of a structure, and to maintain a building’s weather-resistant and structural performance. Following is a brief outline of the code and descriptions of some of the items covered:

Chapter 1 covers Administration of the code

Chapter 2 includes Definitions

Chapter 3 covers General Requirements

· Section 301 identifies the scope of Chapter 3 and establishes who is responsible for complying with the code. This section also provides minimum maintenance requirements for vacant structures.

· Section 302 establishes criteria for maintaining exterior property areas and accessory structures.

§ Including: sanitation, grading, garages, sheds, walks and drives.

· Section 303 contains the requirements for swimming pools, spas and hot tubs and provides requirements for protective barriers and gates.

· Section 304 establishes maintenance requirements for the structural, weather resistance, sanitary and safety performance of the exterior of a structure.

§ Including: paint protection, foundations, walls, roofs, stairs, porches, handrails, windows, doors and screens.

· Section 305 establishes maintenance requirements for the structural, sanitary and safety performance of the interior of a structure.

· Section 306 provides for the safety and maintenance of handrails and guardrails.

· Sections 307 and 308 establish the responsible parties for exterminating insects and rodents, and maintaining sanitary conditions.

Chapter 4 covers Light, ventilation and occupancy limitations

Chapter 5 covers Plumbing facilities and fixture requirements

Chapter 6 covers Mechanical and electrical requirements

Chapter 7 covers Fire safety

For questions or more information on the International Property Maintenance Code you may view chapter 3 below or contact the Building Official by email or phone.

Click Here to View – Chapter 3 – General Requirements