Certificates of Occupancy (CO) & Tenants Rights

A Certificate of Occupancy is required for all rental properties-before a tenant can move in-to ensure the premises are up to code. It is the landlord’s responsibility to have a CO each time a tenant changes. A CO protects tenants from issues such as insufficient heat, lack of smoke alarms, overcrowding and unmaintained sidewalks.

A Conditional Certificate of Inspection for Occupancy (CCO) can be issued at the discretion of the Inspector when the violations cited are few and minor in nature. Violations must be corrected within 21 days.

Tenant Rights Under a Certificate of Occupancy

Heat

The insufficient heating temperature and/or no heat is unacceptable.

Note: Whenever the outer or street temperature shall fall below 60 degrees Fahrenheit, a minimum temperature of 68 degrees Fahrenheit shall be maintained therein between the hours of 6 and 11 p.m, and a minimum temperature of 65 degrees Fahrenheit shall be maintained therein at all other times. Non-Adherence to these temperatures will result in a summons being issued.

Smoke & Carbon Monoxide Alarms

The landlord is required to provide sufficient alarms in order to receive a C/O. It is up to the tenant to maintain the battery and ascertain that the alarm is working.

Grass

The City requires that vegetation (grass and weeds) on the property shall not exceed 10 inches. You are not entitled to a warning before a citation can be issued for long grass. Construction debris must be removed by the owner. The City will not pick up vegetation or construction debris.

Sidewalks

The sidewalk and curb area adjacent to the property is in the “right-of-way.” Maintaining this area is the responsibility of the property owner.

Overcrowding

Everyone living in an apartment or house must be on the C/O and should be on a lease. If you are in violation of the occupancy or overcrowding ordinance, you are not entitled to a warning before a citation can be issued.

Televisions / Electronics

These items must be delivered to Public Works. Fines will be issued to the property owner for any electronics placed on the curb.

Snow Removal

Snow/Ice must be removed from sidewalks within 12 hours after the snowfall ceases. MC 3-31.1.