Minimum Housing Standards (City)

Overview

In order to maintain safe and sanitary living conditions, the City of Huntington has enacted minimum housing standards under Chapter 154 of the City of Huntington Code of Ordinances. The Department, through the Building Commissioner and in conjunction with the Health Officer, is responsible for the administration and enforcement of these standards. Minimum housing standards are a tool used by the City to maintain safe living conditions for property owners, residents, and tenants.

Categories of Minimum Housing Standards

The minimum standards for housing fall into six general categories:

  1. Minimum building occupancy.
  2. Plumbing, garbage disposal, and egress.
  3. Light, ventilation, and heat.
  4. Space and floor area.
  5. Use of basement as a dwelling unit.
  6. Cleanliness and sanitation.

A more complete list of all standards may be found in Sections 154.20 through 154.25 of the City of Huntington Code of Ordinances.

Enforcement and Complaints

The Department investigates complaints filed by the general public concerning minimum housing violations, conducts inspections, and issues orders of enforcement. The City of Huntington Board of Public Works and Safety is the designated hearing authority. When the Building Commissioner issues an order of enforcement and that order is upheld by the Board, property owners are given time to correct the deficiencies. If a property owner fails to make necessary repairs in a timely fashion, the City may assess penalties for non-compliance, issue an "unfit for human habitation" order, or condemn the structure.

To submit a minimum housing complaint, please complete the form below.

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