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1. Who does enforce the existing Building Maintenance Code in the City of Chesapeake?

The Department of Development and Permits, Code Compliance Division enforces the Virginia Uniform Statewide Building Code (VUSBC) maintenance provisions that apply to existing dwellings and other buildings and structures. Enforcement of these codes is initiated by citizen concerns, area patrols, and through systematic exterior neighborhood inspections.

Common Violations of the Code

Exterior Violations

• Paint peeling and flaking
• Loose and missing roof shingles
• Missing or deteriorated siding
• Sheds or fences in disrepair
• Gutters rusted or hanging loose
• Vacant, open buildings
• Street numbers not displayed

Interior Violations

• Gas appliance red tagged by Virginia Natural Gas (VNG)
• Plumbing leaks
• Electrical system hazards
• Inoperative heating systems
• Damage from leaking roofs
• Pest infestation
• Smoke detector missing or inoperative

Whenever a determination has been made that there has been a violation of the code or there are grounds to believe that a violation has occurred, a notice of violation will be served to the occupant or the property owner to correct the violation. Compliance of code violations typically must be completed within a thirty-day time period. It is unlawful for the owner who has received a compliance order or upon whom a notice of violation has been served to sell, transfer, mortgage, lease, or otherwise dispose of the dwelling unit or structure to another until the provisions of the compliance order or notice of violation have been complied with.

2. What is an Unsafe Building?

An unsafe building is a structure, or part of a structure, or premises that is a danger to public safety because of the following reasons:

• Open
• Dilapidated
• Vacant

Open, dilapidated, and vacant buildings are posted with an Unsafe Building Placard and required to be secured. Failure to comply may result in the building being secured by the City. An unsafe building may be demolished by the City if necessary to protect public safety. If this occurs, the property owner shall be billed for the expense of the demolition.

3. What should I do if I can't complete the code violation correction by the deadline?

You may request an extension. A written request of extension can be submitted with the following information:

• Property Address of Violation
• Brief explanation of extension request
• A reasonable estimated completion date

Send a written request of extension to:

Development and Permits
Code Compliance Division
P.O. Box 15225
Chesapeake, VA 23328