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Code Compliance

The City of Kemp Code Compliance Department uses our Code of Ordinances adopted by the City as well as the 2012 International Code to inspect properties for compliance issues.

Have you received a notice of violation?

If you have received a notice of violation, you have ten(10) days from the date that the notice is picked up to become in compliance with the mentioned items in the notice. Should there be a reason that you cannot come in to compliance contact City Hall and speak with the Code Compliance official. 

Would you like to file a code compliance complaint?

If you would like to file a code compliance complaint please fill out the form below and email to tori.hitzfeld@cityofkemp.org
Code Compliance Complaint Form

Common Violations

All of our ordinances are listed online at, https://library.municode.com/tx/kemp/codes/code_of_ordinances , also listed below are some of the common violations that are from the 2012 International Property Maintenance Code.

I.C.C. PROPERTY MAINTENANCE CODE VIOLATIONS:

Property Maintenance Code 301.2: Responsibility.

The owner of the premises shall maintain the structures and exterior property in compliance with these requirements, except as otherwise provided for in this code. A person shall not occupy as owner-occupant or permit another person to occupy premises which are not in a sanitary and safe condition and which do not comply with the requirements of this chapter. Occupants of a dwelling unit, rooming unit or housekeeping unit are responsible for keeping in a clean, sanitary and safe condition that part of the dwelling unit, rooming unit, housekeeping unit or premises which they occupy and control.

Property Maintenance Code 301.3: Vacant structures and land.

All vacant structures and premises thereof or vacant land shall be maintained in a clean, safe, secure and sanitary condition as provided herein so as not to cause a blighting problem or adversely affect the public health or safety.

Property Maintenance Code 302.1: Sanitation.

All exterior property and premises shall be maintained in a clean, safe and sanitary condition. The occupant shall keep that part of the exterior property which such occupant occupies or controls in a clean and sanitary condition.

Property Maintenance Code 302.5: Rodent harborage.

All structures and exterior property shall be kept free from rodent harborage and infestation. Where rodents are found, they shall be promptly exterminated by approved processes which will not be injurious to human health. After extermination, proper precautions shall be taken to eliminate rodent harborage and prevent re-infestation.

Property Maintenance Code 302.7: Accessory structures.

All accessory structures, including detached garages, fences and walls, shall be maintained structurally sound and in good repair.

Property Maintenance Code 302.8: Motor vehicles.

Except as provided for in other regulations, no inoperative or unlicensed motor vehicle shall be parked, kept or stored on any premises, and no vehicle shall at any time be in a state of major disassembly, disrepair, or in the process of being stripped or dismantled. Painting of vehicles is prohibited unless conducted inside an approved spray booth.

Exception: A vehicle of any type is permitted to undergo major overhaul, including body work, provided that such work is performed inside a structure or similarly enclosed area designed and approved for such purposes.

Property Maintenance Code 302.9: Graffiti - Defacement of property.

No person shall willfully or wantonly damage, mutilate or deface any exterior surface of any structure or building on any private or public property by placing thereon any marking, carving or graffiti. It shall be the responsibility of the owner to restore said surface to an approved state of maintenance and repair.

Property Maintenance Code 303.1: Swimming pools.

Swimming pools shall be maintained in a clean and sanitary condition, and in good repair.

Property Maintenance Code 303.2: Swimming Pool Enclosures.

Private swimming pools, hot tubs and spas, containing water more than 24 inches (610 mm) in depth shall be completely surrounded by a fence or barrier at least 48 inches (1219 mm) in height above the finished ground level measured on the side of the barrier away from the pool. Gates and doors in such barriers shall be self-closing and self-latching. Where the self-latching device is less than 54 inches (1372 mm) above the bottom of the gate, the release mechanism shall be located on the pool side of the gate. Self-closing and self-latching gates shall be maintained such that the gate will positively close and latch when released from an open position of 6 inches (152 mm) from the gatepost. No existing pool enclosure shall be removed, replaced or changed in a manner that reduces its effectiveness as a safety barrier.

Property Maintenance Code 304.1: General.

The exterior of a structure shall be maintained in good repair, structurally sound and sanitary so as not to pose a threat to the public health, safety or welfare.

Property Maintenance Code 304.2: Protective treatment.

All exterior surfaces, including but not limited to, doors, door and window frames, cornices, porches, trim, balconies, decks and fences shall be maintained in good condition. 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.

Property Maintenance Code 304.3: Premises identification.

Buildings shall have approved address numbers placed in a position to be plainly legible and visible from the street or road fronting the property. These numbers shall contrast with their background. Address numbers shall be Arabic numerals or alphabet letters. Numbers shall be a minimum of 4 inches (102 mm) high with a minimum

stroke width of 0.5: inch (12 .7: mm).

Property Maintenance Code 304.4: Structural members.

All structural members shall be maintained free from deterioration, and shall be capable of safely supporting the imposed dead and live loads.

Property Maintenance Code 304.5: Foundation walls.

All foundation walls shall be maintained plumb and free from open cracks and breaks and shall be kept in such condition so as to prevent the entry of rodents and other pests.

Property Maintenance Code 304.6: Exterior walls.

All exterior walls shall be free from holes, breaks, and loose or rotting materials; and maintained weatherproof and properly surface coated where required to prevent deterioration.

Property Maintenance Code 304.7: Roofs and drainage.

The roof and flashing shall be sound, tight and not have defects that admit rain. Roof drainage shall be adequate to prevent dampness or deterioration in the walls or interior portion of the structure. Roof drains, gutters and downspouts shall be maintained in good repair and free from obstructions. Roof water shall not be discharged in a manner that creates a public nuisance.

Property Maintenance Code 304.8: Decorative features.

All cornices, belt courses, corbels, terra cotta trim, wall facings and similar decorative features shall be maintained in good repair with proper anchorage and in a safe condition

Property Maintenance Code 304.9: Overhang extensions.

All overhang extensions including, but not limited to canopies, marquees, signs, metal awnings, fire escapes, standpipes and exhaust ducts shall be maintained in good repair and be properly anchored so as to be kept in a sound condition. When required, all exposed surfaces of metal or wood shall be protected from the elements and against decay or rust by periodic application of weather-coating materials, such as paint or similar surface treatment.

Property Maintenance Code 304.10: Stairways, decks, porches and balconies.

Every exterior stairway, deck, porch and balcony, and all appurtenances attached thereto, shall be maintained structurally sound, in good repair, with proper anchorage and capable of supporting the imposed loads.

Property Maintenance Code 304.11: Chimneys and towers.

All chimneys, cooling towers, smoke stacks, and similar appurtenances shall be maintained structurally safe and sound, and in good repair. All exposed surfaces of metal or wood shall be protected from the elements and against decay or rust by periodic application of weather-coating materials, such as paint or similar surface treatment.

Property Maintenance Code 304.12: Handrails and guards.

Every handrail and guard shall be firmly fastened and capable of supporting normally imposed loads and shall be maintained in good condition.

Property Maintenance Code 304.13: Window, skylight and door frames.

Every window, skylight, door and frame shall be kept in sound condition, good repair and weather tight.

Property Maintenance Code 304.13.1: Glazing.

All glazing materials shall be maintained free from cracks and holes.

Property Maintenance Code 304.13.2: Openable windows.

Every window, other than a fixed window, shall be easily openable and capable of being held in position by window hardware.

Property Maintenance Code 304.14: Insect screens.

During the period from [DATE] to [DATE], every door, window and other outside opening required for ventilation of habitable rooms, food preparation areas, food service areas or any areas where products to be included or utilized in food for human  consumption are processed, manufactured, packaged or stored, shall be supplied with approved tightly fitting screens of not less than 16 mesh per inch (16 mesh per 25 mm) and every swinging door shall have a self-closing device in good working condition.

Exception:
Screens shall not be required where other approved means, such as air curtains or insect repellent fans, are employed.

Property Maintenance Code 304.15: Doors.

All exterior doors, door assemblies and hardware shall be maintained in good condition. Locks at all entrances to dwelling units, rooming units and guestrooms shall tightly secure the door. Locks on means of egress doors shall be in accordance with Section 702.3.

Property Maintenance Code 304.16: Basement hatchways.

Every basement hatchway shall be maintained to prevent the entrance of rodents, rain and surface drainage water.

Property Maintenance Code 304.17: Guards for basement windows.

Every basement window that is openable shall be supplied with rodent shields, storm windows or other approved protection against the entry of rodents.

Property Maintenance Code 304.18: Building security.

Doors, windows or hatchways for dwelling units, room units or housekeeping units shall be provided with devices designed to provide security for the occupants and property within

Property Maintenance Code 304.18.1: Doors.

Doors providing access to a dwelling unit, rooming unit or housekeeping unit that is rented, leased or let shall be equipped with a deadbolt lock meeting specifications set forth herein. Such deadbolt locks shall be operated only by the turning of a knob or a key and  shall have a lock throw of not less than 1-inch. For the purpose of this section, a sliding bolt shall not be considered an acceptable deadbolt lock. Such deadbolt locks shall be installed according to manufacturer’s specifications and maintained in good working order. All deadbolt locks required by this section shall be designed and installed in such a manner so as to be operable inside of the dwelling unit, rooming unit or housekeeping unit without the use of a key, tool, combination thereof or any other special knowledge or effort.

Property Maintenance Code 304.18.2: Windows.

Operable windows located in whole or in part within 6 feet (1828 mm) above ground level or a walking surface below that provide access to a dwelling unit, rooming unit or housekeeping unit that is rented, leased or let shall be equipped with a window sash locking devices.

Property Maintenance Code 304.18.3: Basement hatchways.

Basement hatchways that provide access to a dwelling unit, rooming unit or housekeeping unit that is rented, leased or let shall be equipped with devices that secure the units from unauthorized entry.

Property Maintenance Code 305.1: General.

The interior of a structure and equipment therein shall be maintained in good repair, structurally sound and in a sanitary condition. Occupants shall keep that part of the structure which they occupy or control in a clean and sanitary condition. Every owner of a structure containing a rooming house, housekeeping units, a hotel, a dormitory, two or more
dwelling units or two or more nonresidential occupancies, shall maintain, in a clean and sanitary condition, the shared or public areas of the structure and exterior property.

Property Maintenance Code 305.2: Structural members.

All structural members shall be maintained structurally sound, and be capable of supporting the imposed loads.

Property Maintenance Code 305.3: Interior surfaces.

All interior surfaces, including windows and doors, shall be maintained in good, clean and sanitary condition. Peeling, chipping, flaking or abraded paint shall be repaired, removed or covered. Cracked or loose plaster, decayed wood and other defective surface conditions shall be corrected.

Property Maintenance Code 305.4: Stairs and walking surfaces.

Every stair, ramp, landing, balcony, porch, deck or other walking surface shall be maintained in sound condition and good repair.

Property Maintenance Code 305.5: Handrails and guards.

Every handrail and guard shall be firmly fastened and capable of supporting normally imposed loads and shall be maintained in good condition.

Property Maintenance Code 305.6: Interior doors. Every interior door shall fit reasonably well within its frame and shall be capable of being opened and closed by being properly and securely attached to jambs, headers or tracks as intended by the manufacturer of the attachment hardware.

Property Maintenance Code 306.1: Guardrails and Handrails - General.

Every exterior and interior flight of stairs having more than four risers shall have a handrail on one side of the stair and every open portion of a stair, landing, balcony, porch, deck, ramp or other walking surface which is more than 30 inches (762 mm) above the floor or grade below shall have guards. Handrails shall not be less than 30 inches (762 mm) high or more than 42 inches (1067 mm) high measured vertically above the nosing of the tread or above the finished floor of the landing or walking surfaces. Guards shall not be less than 30 inches (762 mm) high above the floor of the landing, balcony, porch, deck, or ramp or other walking surface.

Exception: Guards shall not be required where exempted by the adopted building code.

Property Maintenance Code 307.1: Accumulation of rubbish or garbage.

All exterior property and premises, and the interior of every structure, shall be free from any accumulation of rubbish or garbage.

Property Maintenance Code 307.2: Disposal of rubbish.

Every occupant of a structure shall dispose of all rubbish in a clean and sanitary manner by placing such rubbish in approved containers.

Property Maintenance Code 307.2.1: Rubbish storage facilities.

The owner of every occupied premises shall supply approved covered containers for rubbish, and the owner of the premises shall be responsible for the removal of rubbish.

Property Maintenance Code 307.2.2: Refrigerators.

Refrigerators and similar equipment not in operation shall not be discarded, abandoned or stored on premises without first removing the doors.

Property Maintenance Code 307.3: Disposal of garbage.

Every occupant of a structure shall dispose of garbage in a clean and sanitary manner by placing such garbage in an approved garbage disposal facility or approved garbage containers.

Property Maintenance Code 307.3.1: Garbage facilities.

The owner of every dwelling shall supply one of the following: an approved mechanical food waste grinder in each dwelling unit; an approved incinerator unit in the structure available to the occupants in each dwelling unit; or an approved leak proof, covered, outside garbage container.

Property Maintenance Code 307.3.2: Containers.

The operator of every establishment producing garbage shall provide, and at all times cause to be utilized, approved leak proof containers provided with close-fitting covers for the storage of such materials until removed from the premises for disposal.

Property Maintenance Code 308.1: Infestation.

All structures shall be kept free from insect and rodent infestation. All structures in which insects or rodents are found shall be promptly exterminated by approved processes that will not be injurious to human health. After extermination, proper precautions shall be taken to prevent re-infestation.

Property Maintenance Code 308.2: Owner.

The owner of any structure shall be responsible for extermination within the structure prior to renting or leasing the structure.

Property Maintenance Code 308.3: Single occupant.

The occupant of a one-family dwelling or of a single-tenant nonresidential structure shall be responsible for extermination on the premises.

Property Maintenance Code 308.4: Multiple occupancy.

The owner of a structure containing two or more dwelling units, a multiple occupancy, a rooming house or a nonresidential structure shall be responsible for extermination in the public or shared areas of the structure and exterior property. If infestation is caused by failure of an occupant to prevent such infestation in the area occupied, the occupant shall be responsible for extermination.

Property Maintenance Code 308.5: Occupant.

The occupant of any structure shall be responsible for the continued rodent and pest-free condition of the structure.
Exception: Where the infestations are caused by defects in the structure, the owner shall be responsible for extermination

Property Maintenance Code 501.2: Responsibility.

The owner of the structure shall provide and maintain such plumbing facilities and plumbing fixtures in compliance with these requirements. A person shall not occupy as owner-occupant or permit another person to occupy any structure or premises which does not comply with the requirements of this chapter.

Property Maintenance Code 504.1: General.

All plumbing fixtures shall be properly installed and maintained in working order, and shall be kept free from obstructions, leaks and defects and be capable of performing the function for which such plumbing fixtures are designed. All plumbing fixtures shall be maintained in a safe, sanitary and functional condition.

Property Maintenance Code 506.1: General.

All plumbing fixtures shall be properly connected to either a public sewer system or to an approved private sewage disposal system.

Property Maintenance Code 506.2: Maintenance.

Every plumbing stack, vent, waste and sewer line shall function properly and be kept free from obstructions, leaks and defects.

Property Maintenance Code 507.1: General.

Drainage of roofs and paved areas, yards and courts, and other open areas on the premises shall not be discharged in a manner that creates a public nuisance.

Property Maintenance Code 601.2: Responsibility.

The owner of the structure shall provide and maintain mechanical and electrical facilities and equipment in compliance with these requirements. A person shall not occupy as owner-occupant or permit another person to occupy any premises which does not comply with the requirements of this chapter

Property Maintenance Code 602.2: Residential occupancies.

Dwellings shall be provided with heating facilities capable of maintaining a room temperature

of 68°F (20°C) in all habitable rooms, bathrooms and toilet rooms based on the winter outdoor design temperature for the locality indicated in Appendix D of the International Plumbing Code. Cooking appliances shall not be used to provide space heating to meet the requirements of this section.

Exception: In areas where the average monthly temperature is above 30°F (-1°C), a minimum temperature of 65°F (18°C) shall be maintained.

Property Maintenance Code 602.3: Heat supply.

Every owner and operator of any building who rents, leases or lets one or more dwelling unit, rooming unit, dormitory or guestroom on terms, either expressed or implied, to furnish heat to the occupants thereof shall supply heat during the period from [DATE] to [DATE] to maintain a temperature of not less than 68°F (20°C) in all habitable rooms, bathrooms, and toilet rooms.

Exceptions:

1. When the outdoor temperature is below the winter outdoor design temperature for the locality, maintenance of the minimum room temperature shall not be required provided that the heating system is operating at its full design capacity. The winter outdoor design temperature for the locality shall be as indicated in Appendix D of the International Plumbing Code. 2. In areas where the average monthly temperature is above 30°F (-1°C) a minimum temperature of 65°F (18°C) shall be maintained.

Property Maintenance Code 603.1: Mechanical appliances.

All mechanical appliances, fireplaces, solid fuel-burning appliances, cooking appliances and water heating appliances shall be properly installed and maintained in a safe working condition, and shall be capable of performing the intended function.

Property Maintenance Code 603.2: Removal of combustion products.

All fuel-burning equipment and appliances shall be connected to an approved chimney or vent.
Exception: Fuel-burning equipment

Property Maintenance Code 604.1: Facilities required.

Every occupied building shall be provided with an electrical system in compliance with the requirements of this section and Section 605.

Property Maintenance Code 605.1: Installation.

All electrical equipment, wiring and appliances shall be properly installed and maintained in a safe and approved manner.

Property Maintenance Code 605.2: Receptacles.

Every habitable space in a dwelling shall contain at least two separate and remote receptacle outlets. Every laundry area shall contain at least one grounded-type receptacle or a receptacle with a ground fault circuit interrupter. Every bathroom shall contain at least one receptacle. Any new bathroom receptacle outlet shall have ground fault circuit interrupter protection.

Property Maintenance Code 605.3: Lighting fixtures. Every public hall, interior stairway, toilet room, kitchen, bathroom, laundry room, boiler room and furnace room shall contain at least one electric lighting fixture.