The provisions of this code shall apply to all matters affecting or relating to structures and premises. Where, in a specific case, different sections of this code specify different requirements, the most restrictive shall govern.
(a) Maintenance. Equipment, systems, devices and safeguards required by this code or a previous regulation or code under which the structure or premises was constructed, altered or repaired shall be maintained in good working order. No owner, operator or occupant shall cause any service, facility, equipment or utility which is required under this section to be removed from or shut off from or discontinued for any occupied dwelling, except for such temporary interruption as necessary while repairs or alterations are in progress. The requirements of this code are not intended to provide the basis for removal or abrogation of fire protection and safety systems and devices in existing structures. Except as otherwise specified herein, the owner or the owner's designated agent shall be responsible for the maintenance of buildings, structures and premises.
(b) Application of Other Codes. Repairs, additions or alterations to a structure, or changes of occupancy, shall be done in accordance with the procedures and provisions of all other applicable City adopted codes and requirements. Nothing in this code shall be construed to cancel, modify or set aside any provision of other applicable requirements.
(c) Existing Remedies. The provisions in this code shall not be construed to abolish or impair existing remedies of the City of Kent or its officers or agencies relating to the removal or demolition of any structure which is dangerous, unsafe or unsanitary.
(d) Workmanship. Repairs, maintenance work, alterations or installations which are caused directly or indirectly by the enforcement of this code shall be executed and installed in a workmanlike manner and installed in accordance with the manufacturer's installation instructions and/or applicable building codes.
(e) Historic Buildings. The provisions of this code may be waived upon the approval of the City Manager for existing buildings or structures designated as historic buildings (National Register of Historic Sites) when such buildings or structures are judged by the Code Official to be safe and in the public interest of health, safety and welfare.
(f) Referenced Codes and Standards. The codes and standards referenced in this code shall be those that are listed in the Kent Codified Ordinances and any additional codes adopted by the City of Kent by reference. Where differences occur between provisions of this code and the referenced standards, the provisions of this code shall apply.
(g) Requirements Not Covered by Code. Requirements necessary for the strength, stability or proper operation of an existing fixture, structure or equipment, or for the public safety, health and general welfare, not specifically covered by this code, shall be determined directly by the Code Official based on information submitted by the property owner, including plans, architectural or engineering reports prepared by an Ohio Registered Architect or Engineer which document the adequacy of the repairs.
(Ord. 2012-34. Passed 3-28-12.)