Code and Fire to Inspect All Multi-Family Dwellings 

The Code Enforcement Department, in conjunction with the Brewer Fire Department is initiating an inspection of all multi-family dwellings within the city to better protect the property owners, as well as the citizens who reside within these buildings. A major catalyst for these inspections is the steadily rising number of tenant complaints the City receives on a weekly basis as well as complaints from abutting property owners.

The inspections will begin in mid February. The order in which we inspect each building will be done alphabetically by the property owner’s last name. Property owners are encouraged to call at any time to setup an appointment with the Code Enforcement Office. The property owner will need to make arrangements with their tenants for access to each individual unit. Inspection of the entire building in one visit is imperative. We will be inspecting every unit and all common areas such as basements and accessible attic areas. Following the inspection the property owner will be informed in writing of any violations or deficiencies. They will be given a reasonable amount of time to perform any corrective measures that might be necessary. A follow-up inspection will be scheduled to coincide with the deadline date for compliance verification.

The City of Brewer has adopted and enforces the 1993 BOCA National Property Maintenance  Code as it’s existing structures model code as well as the 1994 NFPA 101 Life Safety Code. The requirements include:

All exterior property must be maintained as not to promote infestation from vermin. This includes no excessive growth of weeds or grass. Not more than one unregistered or uninspected motor vehicle shall be kept or stored on any premises.

The exterior condition of the building must be kept free from defects.

The interior condition of the building as well as each unit shall be kept clean and free from defects.

No accumulation of rubbish or garbage is allowed inside the dwelling or outside the building without being stored in approved containers. No accumulation of combustible materials will be permitted to be stored anywhere within the building.

We will be inspecting for openable windows with insect screens, bathroom ventilation and general lighting throughout the building.

All dwelling units must have plumbing facilities that are properly installed and free from leaks and defects.

All mechanical equipment such as heating, cooking and water heaters shall be properly installed and kept free of defects.

All chimneys shall be of sound construction and kept free from defects

Electrical equipment shall be properly installed and maintained free from defects. Every room within each unit shall have at least two separate and remote receptacle outlets.

All common areas shall be protected with interconnected hard wired smoke detection. This will include one detector installed in the basement, first floor level to any level above. Each individual unit shall have at least one hardwired smoke detector in the immediate vicinity of the sleeping areas.

These are some of the possible violations we will be looking at to be corrected. If you should have any questions or comments, please feel free to contact David Russell, Code Officer, at 989-7790. 

The Brewer Beacon, Winter 2002.