§ 157.09 MAINTENANCE OF EXTERIOR PROPERTY AREAS.
   (A)   Sanitation. All exterior property areas shall be maintained in a clean and sanitary condition.
   (B)   Grading and drainage. All premises shall be graded and maintained to prevent accumulation of stagnant water thereon, or within any building or structure located thereon.
   (C)   Noxious weeds. All exterior property areas shall be kept free from species of weeds or plant growth which are noxious or detrimental to the public health.
   (D)   Accessory structures. All accessory structures, including detached garages, shall be maintained as prescribed in the code of record.
   (E)   Foundation walls. The foundation elements shall adequately support the building at all points. All foundation walls shall be maintained and free from open cracks, breaks, tears and holes and shall be kept in such condition as to prevent the entry of rodents and other pests.
   (F)   Exterior walls. Every exterior wall shall be free of holes, breaks, loose or rotting boards or timbers, and any other conditions that admit rain or dampness to the interior portions of the walls or to the occupied spaces of the building. All exterior walls shall have some type of water resistant exterior finish such as siding or masonry as prescribed in the code of record. Exterior weather wrap and treated plywood shall not be sufficient. All exterior walls shall be kept in such condition as to exclude rodent or insect infestation. All exterior surfaces, including but not limited to, doors, door and window frames, cornices, porches, trim, balconies, decks and fences shall be maintained as prescribed in the code of record. Exterior wood surfaces, other than decay resistant woods, shall be protected from the elements and decay by painting or other protective covering or treatment. Peeling, flaking, and chipped paint shall be eliminated and surfaces repainted. All siding 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. All metal surfaces subject to rust or corrosion shall be coated to inhibit such rust and corrosion and 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. Surfaces designed for stabilization by oxidation are exempt from this requirement.
   (G)   Roofs and overhanging extensions. The roof and flashing shall be kept maintained in a sound and tight manner as not to admit rain or water as prescribed in the code of record. Roof drainage shall be adequate to prevent dampness or deterioration within the walls or interior portions of the structure. All overhanging extensions including but not limited to canopies, marquees, signs, metal awnings, and porch roofs shall be maintained as prescribed in the code of record. Temporary tarps placed upon a roof shall be limited to 60 days.
   (H)   Stairs, porches, and railings. All exterior stairways, decks, porches and balconies and all appurtenances attached thereto, shall be maintained as prescribed in the code of record.
   (I)   Structural safety. Every outside stair, porch, and appurtenance to every structure shall be so constructed as to be safe to use and capable of supporting the loads prescribed in the code of record.
   (J)   Handrails and guardrails. Shall be maintained to support loads prescribed in the code of record.
   (K)   Windows, doors, and hatchways. All glazing and windows shall be maintained free from cracks and holes. All windows, other than fixed windows, shall be easily opened from the inside of the structure.
   (L)   Windows to be glazed. Every window sash shall be fully supplied with glass window panes or an approved substitute which are without open cracks or holes.
   (M)   Windows to be tight. Every window sash shall be in good condition and fit reasonably tight within its window frame.
   (N)   Windows to open. Every window other than a fixed window, shall be capable of being openable as prescribed in the code of record.
   (O)   Door hardware. Every exterior door, door hinge, and door latch shall be maintained in working condition.
   (P)   Doors to fit frame. Every exterior door, when closed, shall fit reasonably well within its frame.
   (Q)   Window and door frames to fit well. Every window, door, and frame shall be maintained in such relation to the adjacent wall construction so as to exclude precipitation as completely as possible as prescribed in the code of record.
   (R)   Basement hatchways. Every basement hatchway shall be so constructed and maintained to prevent the entrance of rodents, insect infestation, rain and surface drainage water into the dwelling or structure.
   (S)   Exit doors. Every door available as an exit shall be capable of being easily opened from the inside as prescribed in the code of record.
   (T)   Vacant properties. All vacant properties shall have windows and doors secured from unauthorized entry. If windows, doors, and other openings are not capable of being locked, the owner shall be responsible for boarding or otherwise securing the opening.
   (U)   Gutters. Every gutter shall be maintained and kept in a functional, sound, and safe state of maintenance and repair to effectively carry off water without blockage or leakage.
   (V)   Structural members. All structural members of the exterior shall be maintained in a structurally sound manner and be capable of supporting all imposed loads. Any deficiencies in structural members identified by the Building Commissioner shall be evaluated by a design professional registered in the State of Indiana as directed by the Building Commissioner at the expense of the property owner.
(Ord. 120114B, passed 12-1-14; Am. Ord. 031615, passed 3-16-15)