The Enforcement Officer shall have such powers as may be necessary or convenient to carry out, enforce and effectuate the purposes and provisions of this chapter, including, and without limiting, the generality of the foregoing and in addition to others herein granted, the following powers.
(A) Investigations.
(1) To undertake an investigation of nonresidential structures in the town to determine whether they have been properly maintained in compliance with the minimum requirements of this chapter so that the safety or health of the occupants or others are not jeopardized; and
(2) To undertake a preliminary investigation whenever it appears that any nonresidential structure has not been properly maintained so that the safety or health of its occupants or others are jeopardized for failure of the property to meet the minimum requirements of this chapter.
(B) Right of entry. To enter upon and within premises and nonresidential structures at all reasonable times when necessary for the purpose of making examinations and investigations pursuant to a duly issued administrative inspection warrant in accordance with G.S. § 15-27.2 or with the permission of the owner, the owner’s agent, a tenant or other person legally in possession of the premises; provided, that such entries shall be made in such a manner so as to cause the least possible inconvenience to the persons in possession and shall otherwise be in accordance with the provisions of applicable law.
(C) Hearings and the like. To conduct hearings, administer oaths and affirmations and to examine witnesses and receive evidence, make findings of fact and issue orders as provided in this chapter.
(D) Periodic inspections. To conduct quarterly periodic examinations and inspections of nonresidential structures to determine compliance with the requirements of this chapter following the hearing and a determination that a structure is unsafe and a health or safety hazard and an order issued that it be repaired, altered or improved, vacated and closed, removed and/or demolished.
(E) Delegation of functions. To delegate any of these powers and functions and others under this chapter to such officers and agent as he or she may designate.
(Ord. passed 7-20-2010)