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.