Multi-Family Housing Inspection Program

The city performs systematic inspections of all rental properties with three or more units in order to ensure the health and safety of tenants and protect and enhance private property values.

The frequency of inspection is set by the city based upon the age and condition of the property as well as the maintenance practices of the owner.

Inspections are performed under the guidance of the 2009 International Property Maintenance Code and other codes as adopted by the City of Littleton. Properties are subject to incentives and penalties based upon the results of inspection. The owner or owners of the property are responsible for the correction of all violations as required by the city.

The 2009 International Property Maintenance Code can be purchased by contacting the International Code Council at www.iccsafe.org. A list of items subject to inspection is attached.

A copy of inspection requirements will be mailed to the owner prior to inspection. Owners will be contacted prior to inspection in order to schedule an inspection date and time. Inspection is required for all units occupied or vacant and in common and exterior areas.

Owners or their representatives will be required to escort the inspector during all inspections and provide access to all units and areas to be inspected. Owners or their representatives should be prepared for inspection by notifying all tenants of the date and time of inspection and having keys readily available to open all units and areas subject to inspection.

Properties that have met the required minimum standard will be issued a certificate of compliance suitable for framing. The certificate may be placed on display as proof of having met the Cities requirement for minimum housing standards.

Inspection fees

Properties that do not meet the minimum standard within required correction dates are subject to reinspection fees and/or summons and/or abatement. Inspection fees are charged per unit inspected.

• Initial inspection: no charge
• First reinspection: no charge
• Second reinspection: $100 per unit or area inspected
• Third reinspection without compliance: owner issued summons

Summons may be issued at any time during the inspection process due to noncompliance or failure to make sufficient progress or if in the opinion of the Inspector a serious violation exists or the owner fails to cooperate with the inspector or to provide access on scheduled dates and times.

Failure to cooperate in allowing inspection will result in the city obtaining an inspection warrant for the property. Failure to make required repairs may result in the city abating, vacating or demolishing dangerous buildings. The cost of such action will be the responsibility of the owner of the property. Failure to pay for such action will result in a lien to recover costs for enforcing dangerous building codes.

Tenants are required to provide access to the owner or manager and the inspector. Failure to allow access will result in an inspection warrant and completion of required inspection. Tenants are required to provide good housekeeping practices and to report defects to the property owner or manager in a timely manner. Good housekeeping requires that the unit be kept clean, sanitary and clear of clutter.

For more information about the Housing Inspection Program, contact Littleton Housing Inspector Stacy Hooper at 303-795-3767.