Sec. 518.420. - Interior structure—Residential.

No person shall occupy or let to another for occupancy a dwelling, multiple dwelling, dwelling unit, rooming house or rooming unit for the purpose of living therein which does not comply with the requirements of this Subpart with respect to the interior structure. (a) Freedom from dampness. In every dwelling, multiple dwelling, dwelling unit, rooming house and rooming unit, cellars, basements, crawl spaces and every floor, walls and ceiling shall be maintained reasonably free from dampness. (b) Interior floors, walls and ceilings. Every floor, interior wall and ceiling shall be substantially rodent proof; shall be kept in sound condition and good repair; and shall be safe to use and capable of supporting the load which normal use may cause to be placed thereon. (c) Interior stairs and railings. All interior stairs of every structure used for human habitation shall be maintained in sound condition and good repair. Treads and risers that evidence excessive wear or are broken, warped or loose shall be replaced. Every inside stair shall be so constructed and maintained as to be safe to use and capable of supporting the load which normal use may cause to be placed thereon. (d) Handrails. Structurally sound handrails shall be provided on steps containing five or more risers. If steps are not enclosed, handrails with balusters spaced approximately six inches apart shall be provided. Porches or balconies located more than three feet higher than the adjacent area shall have structurally sound protective handrails approximately 36 inches high and, if the porch or balcony is unenclosed, balusters spaced approximately six inches apart shall also be provided. Alternate systems providing at least the same degree of protection, if approved by the Chief, shall be acceptable. (e) Bathroom and kitchen floors. Every water closet compartment, bathroom, laundry room and kitchen floor surface shall be constructed and maintained so as to be reasonably impervious to cater and so as to permit the floor to be easily kept in a clean and sanitary condition. (f) Sanitation. The interior of every dwelling and multiple [dwelling] used for human habitation shall be maintained in a clean and sanitary condition, free from any accumulation of filth, rubbish or garbage. Rubbish, garbage and other refuse shall be properly kept inside temporary storage facilities. (g) Insect and rodent harborages. Buildings used for human habitation shall be kept free from insect and rodent harborages such as accumulated rubbish, boxes, rags or other similar materials which may provide a harborage and shall be kept free from insect and rodent infestation. Where an infestation or harborage is found, it shall be promptly eliminated by acceptable processes. (h) Illumination. Sufficient windows, sky lights and electrical lighting fixtures shall be provided so as to furnish adequate illumination for the intended use or occupancy of the building. Illumination of at least five foot candle power shall be provided in all passageways and stairways at all times the buildings is occupied. Levels of illumination shall be measured at the floor or stair tread level. (Ord. 96-458-297, § 1)