Housing Code Structural Requirements for Rental Property

A rental property that is in a condition of good repair will meet all housing code structural requirements for residential dwellings. These requirements are put in place to ensure that any residential building can adequately protect the safety of its occupants. Without an adequate structure, the whole house could come tumbling down, just like a house of cards!

The following list provides some of the main requirements that minimum housing codes specify for residential dwellings…

• The foundation shall be structurally sound. This includes being free of cracks, bulges and buckling. Also, the ground should be sloped away from the foundation for proper drainage.
• The roof should be structurally adequate and be free of any sagging. The eaves should not be rotted, and there should be no tree limbs hanging over the roof. In addition, the shingles should have no more than two layers, and they should not be curled or damaged.
• The exterior walls should be straight, plumb and weather-tight.
• The floors should be level and free of sags, cracks, and missing boards.
• Porches and decks shall have adequate structural members that are in sound condition. Also, they shall have guard railings if the deck exceeds a certain specified height above grade.
• All stairs should be properly designed, in good condition, and have handrails if there are more than two steps, and
• All masonary chimneys shall be secure, stable and free of cracks.

So, to ensure that your rental property doesn't become a "house of cards", make sure it complies with the structural requirements of your local housing code.

For more information on housing code structural requirements, please visit The Landlord's Library book collection. It's truly a one-stop source for comprehensive information on the entire subject of residential landlording - the only source you'll ever need.