(a) Minimum inspection standards. At a minimum, any multi-family dwelling complex inspected under the authority of this article must comply with the standards set forth in the property maintenance code in order to pass inspection; provided, however, that the administrator may create or adopt a scoring system under which a multi-family dwelling complex may pass inspection by receiving a specific minimum score as defined by the administrator. If the administrator creates or adopts such a scoring system, a multi-family dwelling complex may pass inspection by receiving the minimum score or above even though the multi-family dwelling complex does not meet every single criterion set forth in this section.
(b) Bedroom window required. Every bedroom in a dwelling unit located below the fourth story of a multi-family dwelling complex shall have at least one window or opening facing directly to the outdoors capable of being opened to the maximum size intended.
(c) Screening required. Every window in any dwelling unit which is used for ventilation purposes directly to or from outdoor space shall be equipped with an insect-proof screen when central air conditioning is not provided to said unit.
(d) Boilers. All boilers must meet all state law requirements and have the inspection certification posted in accordance with Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation Boiler Division laws and regulations.
(e) Public safety. All multi-family dwelling complexes shall meet the following minimum requirements with regard to public safety:
(1) Security devices. Security devices must be installed and maintained in accordance with Subchapter D of Chapter 92 of the Texas Property Code, including keyless deadbolt locks, door viewers, window and door locks, and sliding glass door security.
(2) Lighting. Exterior illumination shall be provided at appropriate points adjacent to all building entrances, including individual dwelling units, stairwells, and hallways. Lighting shall be sufficient to illuminate area where hazards may reasonably exist, and shall be operable between a half hour after sunset and a half hour before sunrise. If control mechanisms for such lighting are not accessible by each tenant, such illumination shall be activated and deactivated by a photo cell or seasonally-adjusted timer switch, not operable by individual tenants of the multi-family dwelling complex. A landlord shall repair all inoperable exterior lighting fixtures within a reasonable period of time after being notified that the fixture is not working, in no instance shall a reasonable period of time be deemed to mean more than seven days.
(f) General maintenance; grounds and premises. The exterior and grounds of any multi-family dwelling complex must be maintained in compliance with all applicable provisions of the Longview City Code. In addition to any requirements of said code, the exterior and grounds of any multi-family dwelling complex must comply with the following minimum requirements:
(1) Graffiti. All buildings, structures, and grounds must be maintained free of graffiti.
(2) Extermination of insects, rodents, or other pests. Every multi-family dwelling complex must be properly inspected and exterminated for any observed pests a minimum of twice a year or more frequently as needed to maintain the premises free from rodents, insects, and vermin. All pest control must be performed by a properly licensed pest control operator in accordance with applicable state laws and regulations.
(3) Garbage and refuse collection. Except when placed curbside for collection in accordance with all applicable requirements of the city, any outside storage of garbage must be in a container that is constructed of durable, rodent'proof material and that has an intact lid. When placed outside for the purposesof curbside collection, all garbage and refuse must meet all applicable requirements of the city, including without limitation any applicable provisions of Chapter 49 of this code. Any commercial container must meet all applicable city requirements regarding enclosure and/or screening of the container.
(Ord. No. 3099, § 4, 2-14-02; Ord. No. 4045, §4, 3-24-16)