Property Maintenance Inspections

The Marquette City Fire Department enforces the BOCA National Property Maintenance Code and City ordinances that apply to property maintenance. They are minimum requirements for maintaining structures and exterior property areas. Inspections are made on a complaint basis, or if the property appears to be falling into disrepair. It is believed that property maintenance is directly related to fire safety.

Interior living areas are required to have ceiling and wall surfaces that are in good condition and can be maintained. Floors in kitchens and bathrooms should have a hard surface and be free from holes and deterioration. Doors and windows are required to be maintained in good working order to allow for egress or emergency escape in the event of a fire. Rooms should have a sufficient number of electrical outlets to handle appliances. Extension cords should only be used on a limited basis. You should avoid running them under carpeting and through doorways where they can be damaged. A working smoke detector is required in an area outside the sleeping rooms. If it is battery operated, the battery should be checked and changed when you change your clocks in the spring and fall. Smoke detectors should be tested on a regular basis by pushing the test button. Bathrooms are required to be ventilated. Bathrooms should have at least one window that is easily opened for ventilation. If the bathroom does not have a window, an exhaust fan is required.

In the picture, Fire Inspector Paul Enrietti is discussing an inspection with a local business owner.