HOUSING

There are several important reasons why a landlord should follow city ordinances and state building codes for their apartment buildings:

Legal Compliance:

• Avoiding Fines and Penalties: Failing to comply with city ordinances and state building codes can result in significant fines, penalties, and even legal action. This can be a major financial burden for landlords and can damage their reputation with tenants and potential renters.
• Condemnation Risk: In severe cases, non-compliance can lead to the eviction of tenants by the local government, leaving the landlord with vacant units, relocation liens and lost rental income.

Safety and Health:

• Protecting Tenants: Building codes and ordinances are established with the primary goal of ensuring the safety and health of building occupants. These regulations address vital aspects like structural integrity, fire safety, electrical systems, plumbing, and sanitation. By following these guidelines, landlords help create a safe and healthy environment for their tenants.
• Reducing Liability: Failing to comply with building codes can increase a landlord's liability in case of accidents or injuries that occur within the property due to code violations.

Marketability and Value:

• Attracting Tenants: Tenants are more likely to choose and stay in rental units that are well-maintained, meet safety standards, and comply with regulations. Upholding building codes and ordinances shows tenants that the landlord prioritizes their well-being and ensures a quality living environment.
• Increased Property Value: Properties that adhere to building codes and ordinances are generally seen as more valuable and can command higher rents. This can be beneficial for landlords looking to maximize their investment returns.

Professionalism:

• Building Trust: Following building codes and ordinances demonstrates professionalism and a commitment to responsible property management. This can foster trust and positive relationships between landlords and tenants.
• Maintaining Industry Standards: Adhering to regulations aligns with established industry standards and practices, promoting responsible property management within the community.

Overall, following city ordinances and state building codes is not just a legal obligation, but also a good business practice that protects all parties involved – landlords, tenants, and the community. It ensures safe, healthy living environments, reduces liability concerns, and helps maintain property value and marketability.

Below is a link to our required landlord registration. The registration is required prior to renting any housing units in Norwich. See link below blight to file a housing complaint.

Blight

Blight refers to conditions on a property that negatively affect the surrounding area and the overall quality of life. These conditions can be physical, social, or economic in nature.

Examples of Blight.

• Physical: Deteriorated buildings, overgrown yards, unsanitary conditions, abandoned vehicles.
• Social: Crime, vacancy, lack of community engagement.
• Economic: Disinvestment, property neglect, decline in property values.

Code Enforcement in Norwich:

The Norwich Department of Planning and Development oversees code enforcement, including blight control and housing.

Process:

1. Complaint: Residents can report suspected code violations through the city website or by calling the Housing/Blight department. Link provided below to file an online complaint.
2. Inspection: A code enforcement officer inspects the property to verify the violation.
3. Notice of Violation: The property owner receives a written notice outlining the violation and required corrective actions.
4. Compliance: The owner has a designated timeframe to address the violation. This is typically 30 days.
5. Fines and Penalties: Failure to comply can result in fines, penalties, and potentially legal action.

Challenges in Blight or Housing Remediation:

• Cost: Addressing certain violations, like repairs to dilapidated structures, can be expensive for owners, leading to delays or neglect.
• Ownership Issues: Vacant or abandoned properties with unclear ownership create difficulties in identifying and holding accountable responsible parties.
• Legal Process: The legal process for enforcing code violations can be lengthy and complex, further delaying resolutions.

What You Can Do:

• Report Violations: Report suspected code violations to the city using the official channels.
• Stay Informed: Attend neighborhood meetings, connect with your local community organizations, and stay informed about ongoing efforts and initiatives to address blight.
• Volunteer: Participate in community clean-up events, beautification projects, and support organizations working to revitalize your neighborhood.
• Advocate: Advocate for policies and programs that support affordable housing, community development, and resources to address blighted properties.
• Be a Positive Influence: Maintain your own property, be a good neighbor, and create a sense of community pride.

By working together, residents, community organizations, and local authorities can tackle blight and contribute to a safer, healthier, and more vibrant environment for everyone.

Useful Links and Flyers:

List of What's not Accepted Bulky Waste

Bulky Waste Flyer

Sept. 2024 Cleanup Flyer