As a Tenant, Should Code Enforcement be Contacted if there is a Maintenance Problem in My Unit?

Notify the property owner, landlord, or property manager of all maintenance issues and allow a reasonable amount of time for the repairs to be made. It is the responsibility of the tenant to allow access to the unit for such repairs. If the repairs are not made in a timely fashion, then contacting Code Enforcement may be appropriate.

How does Code Enforcement Respond to Housing Complaints?

An Officer will conduct an inspection within 72 business hours of receiving a complaint for Priority Housing Violations (See examples). For all others, an advisory letter will be mailed to the property owner allowing thirty days for the repairs/corrections to be made. After thirty days, the officer will contact the tenant to verify the repairs were made. If the violations remain, an inspection will be conducted.

Examples of Housing Violations

          Priority Violations:

• Surfacing Sewage
• Lack of Heat
• Lack of Required Utilities
• Lack of Water and/or Hot Water
• Collapsing Roof/Ceiling
• Vacant, open and accessible dwelling

Other Violations:

• Plumbing Leak
• Roof Leak
• Vector Infestation
• Broken Windows
• Electrical Malfunction
• Holes in Wall
• Unsanitary Premises
• Rodent Harborage
• Vacant building with overgrown vegetation
  (17920.3 CA H&S, SCC 16.18.401 (w))

Should I Contact Code Enforcement about a Vacant House?

A vacant house is not a violation of any County code. However, if a home is vacant, open and accessible and is also being accessed by unauthorized persons, Code Enforcement can respond and ensure that the property is secured. Contact the Sheriff’s Department if you see such illegal activity.

It is also a violation if the landscaping of a vacant building is not being maintained and the grass/weeds exceed 12 inches.
(SCC 16.18.401(v) & (w), 16.23.010)

Who do I contact if I find mildew within my rental housing unit?

If you have discovered water intrusion within your unit, you should first check with your landlord. Typically, structural or plumbing repair work is the landlord's responsibility. Problems with mildew accumulation are the responsibility of the tenant to fix. View more information about Tenant-landlord water intrusion issues.

If you are not able to resolve your structural or plumbing issues with your landlord, you may call file a complaint at 916-875-5656. Get more information about mold issues, how to get rid of mold and additional contact information if you live within the cities of Sacramento, Citrus Heights, Elk Grove or Folsom at the Sacramento Environmental Management Department.