Apartment Code Enforcement Sweeps Program
Intent: The intent of the City of Chamblee Apartment Code Enforcement Sweeps Program is to educate owners and property managers regarding city codes and ordinances and to work with them to improve the appearance and safety of their property.
Purpose: The City of Chamblee includes a variety of land uses consisting of a range of building types of different ages and physical conditions. The Chamblee Code Enforcement Division (“the Division”) monitors the city for common code violations on a regular basis. In addition, the Division conducts in-depth sweeps of apartment properties to ensure that all parts of the city are following adopted codes and ordinances.
Approach: Apartment sweeps involve staff members representing all functions of the Planning & Development Department, including code enforcement, building permits and inspections and planning and zoning. In addition, other resources such as the City Engineer, DeKalb County Fire Marshal and other outside agencies are involved as needed. In general, the approach of the sweeps program is to improve the quality, appearance and safety of apartments throughout the city by working together with owners and managers to ensure city codes are being met.
Procedures: The Division will follow the following procedures when conducing a commercial area code enforcement sweep:
- Notice: Property Owners/Managers are notified via certified mail prior to the area inspection. This notification includes a list of items that will be assessed during the visit along with contact information for any questions or need for further information.
- Visit: Inspections take place on weekdays between the hours of 8 AM and 5 PM. Each property is reviewed against the apartment sweeps checklist (see attached) during the visit. Inspections generally take one to three business days depending on the size of the area, number of buildings, etc.
- Final Report: Generally, a report is created for each building on the property. This report includes documentation related to the nature of any violations, photos and the corrective action necessary to remedy any violations. An appropriate amount of time to remedy each issue is assigned based on the severity of the violation. The final report is mailed via certified mail to any impacted property owners/managers and hand delivered to any on-site manager.
- Follow-up: The Code Enforcement Supervisor monitors the follow-up process. This includes scheduling on-site meetings with property owners and managers to discuss violations and actions necessary to remedy such violations. The Supervisor also monitors progress and updates due dates as progress is being made. In cases, where no progress is being made by the property owner and/or manager a formal Notice of Violation is issued by the Division.