Property Maintenance Information

Homes and properties must be well maintained both inside and outside according to the International Property Maintenance Code. To keep neighborhoods safe, healthy and vibrant, there are also local municipality rules about everything from broken windows in homes to uncut grass and junk in the yard. The Code Department is continually in the process of performing exterior inspections of properties within the Borough. These inspections include commercial as well as residential buildings. We are looking for exterior property violations such as: 

• Unprotected wood framework of building(s), missing or defective rain gutters and downspouts.
• Broken windows or other structural defects to chimneys/decks/porches, etc.
• Porch supports are to be maintained in a safe and sound condition and in good repair.
• Sidewalks are to be maintained free from hazardous conditions.
• Homes should have address numbers displayed on the front and rear of the property 
• Accessory structures shall be maintained and in good repair, etc. 

The International Property Maintenance Code is a model code that regulates the minimum maintenance requirements for existing buildings and exterior property areas. The responsibility for maintenance and upkeep falls on the owners, operators, and occupants of the property. The Property Maintenance Code provides requirements that are intended to maintain a minimum level of safety and sanitation for both the general public and the occupants of a structure, and to maintain a building’s structural and weather-resistance performance.

The International Property Maintenance Code provides specific criteria for regulating the installation and maintenance of specific building components; maintenance requirements for vacant structures and land; requirements regulating the safety, sanitation and appearance of the interior and exterior of structures and all exterior property areas; accessory structures; vehicle storage regulations and establishes who is responsible for complying with the chapter’s provisions. The Property Maintenance Code also contains the requirements for swimming pools, spas and hot tubs and the requirements for protective barriers and gates. In addition, the Code establishes the responsible parties for exterminating insects and rodents and maintaining sanitary conditions in all types of occupancies.

IPMC Board of Appeals

Section 111 of the International Property Maintenance Code (IPMC) allows any person aggrieved by a decision of the code official, or a notice or order issued under the Code the right to appeal to the IPMC Board of Appeals. The Board must meet within 20 days of the submission of an appeal. Hearings are held in Council Chambers at West Reading Borough Hall.

In accordance with the Code, the governing body may appoint three or more members to the Board, serving staggered terms. Members are not required to be residents of the Borough. Members should be qualified by experience and training to pass decisions on matters pertaining to property maintenance. Members may not be employees of the Borough. IPMC Board of Appeals members do not receive compensation.

The fee associated with requesting a hearing is $400.