AUSTIN, TX – Austin City Council approved proposed changes for the International Property Maintenance Code (IPMC), 2021 Edition. The ordinance takes effect on September 1, 2021.
The IPMC is a model code intended to establish minimum standards for structural conditions, lighting, ventilation, sanitation, and fire safety. The IPMC is administered by local building code officials nationwide with local amendments that are approved by City Council.
The proposed amendments will require an action plan for the occupants in structures unsafe for human occupancy. (Section 111.1.3)
111.1.3 Structure Unsafe for Human Occupancy. A structure is unfit for human occupancy whenever the code official finds that such structure is unsafe, unlawful or, because of the degree to which the structure is in disrepair or lacks maintenance, is insanitary, vermin or rat infested, contains filth and contamination, or lacks ventilation, illumination, sanitary or heating facilities or other essential equipment required by this code, or because the location of the structure constitutes a hazard to the occupants of the structure or to the public. If the code official finds a structure unsafe, the owner of the property shall provide an action plan for repairs to the code official.
What is an action plan? An action plan is a written plan that identifies the repairs that are needed, the timeline needed for repairs, alternative methods of compliance, if necessary, and the projected finish date of the repairs.
View the final ordinance presented for Council review: https://www.austintexas.gov/edims/document.cfm?id=361494