Property Maintenance Code Checklist

The Property Maintenance Code for one- and two-family homes requires that the exteriors of all buildings and structures be kept in good repair. The Code also requires properties to remain clean and sanitary.

The following is a checklist of basic maintenance problems every homeowner can identify and fix. Some maintenance projects may require permits or professional help, but most smaller repairs may be done by the homeowner. Contact Josh Kunde at 763-593-8074, if you have any questions. Remember, if it looks like it needs repair, it probably does.

General Appearance

  • Paint fading, chalking, or peeling
  • Neglected landscaping, lawn not mowed, or overgrown weeds
  • Accumulation of trash, construction debris, or yard waste
  • Junk vehicles sitting out rather than stored
  • Driveway in poor condition, ruts, holes
  • Roofing curling, missing, or overdue for replacement (the average life of a shingled roof is 20-30 years)

Windows and Doors

  • Windows not operational, no screens
  • Garage doors not securable
  • Entry doors rotten or dilapidated
  • Doors or windows not securable against intrusions

Accessory and Yard Buildings

  • Doors not operational or securable
  • Foundation unstable (settling or rotten)
  • Windows and doors with broken glass or missing glazing

Soffit and Fascia (bottom side of overhang & trim around roof edge)

  • Soffits falling or rotten
  • Vents out of place, full of debris
  • Fascia boards and trim unattached or rotting

Gutters and Downspouts

  • Gutters not properly attached, falling
  • Downspouts not attached to gutters, draining toward house
  • Gutters and downspouts cluttered with debris
  • Any necessary end caps or fittings out of place
  • Downspouts flood walkways or steps

Trailers and Recreational Vehicles

  • Vehicles not parked on driveway
  • Vehicles not displaying current license
  • Vehicles parked on side of rear yards not screened from view
  • More than one trailer/recreational vehicle parked in driveway

Fences and Retaining Walls

  • Chain link fencing not secured to posts
  • Gates not operational
  • Fence posts rotting at ground level
  • Fence boards not attached
  • Retaining walls falling or leaning
  • Wood missing or rotting

Lawn Maintenance and Landscaping

  • Grass/weeds longer than 8 inches
  • Flower beds and gardens overrun with weeds or brush
  • Lawn clippings, leaves, and yard equipment sitting out
  • Trees overgrown onto house or buildings, causing damage
  • Shrubs and bushes overgrown and on buildings

Chimneys

  • Bricks or chimney caps out of place, not secured
  • Chimney settling, leaning, or falling
  • Trees blocking discharge flues

Porches and Decks

  • Foundations settling or rotting
  • Beams and posts sized incorrectly and rotting
  • Handrails out of place, not secured
  • Stairs not structurally sound or properly constructed
  • Decking material not structurally sound or fastened in place

Steps and Sidewalks

  • Have heaved, cracked, or moved unreasonably
  • Surface not reasonably smooth and uniform

Firewood

  • Scattered, on the ground
  • Visible eyesore
  • More than what’s needed

House Numbers

  • Less than three inches high
  • Numbers blend into background
  • Not clearly visible from street