Show All Answers

1. What is the IPMC?

The International Property Maintenance Code (IPMC) is a model code that regulates the minimum maintenance requirements for existing commercial and residential structures and premises.

2. What benefits does enforcement of the IPMC bring to the community and its residents?

The IPMC requires that owners, and in some cases tenants, maintain their property and all structures on the property in good repair and in compliance with minimum standards. The goal of the city’s enforcement efforts is to bring properties into voluntary compliance, remove blight, stabilize property values, improve livability and reduce crimes fostered by neglected properties. In general, improve the quality of life for citizens.

3. When did the city begin enforcement of the IPMC?

Enforcement began in late March 2019 and applies to the entire city.

4. What are the most common types of issues noted by Code Officers?

The most common violations are:

• Peeling paint or unprotected surfaces
• Broken windows, skylights or door frames
• Failed foundations
• Rotten wood anywhere on the structure
• Deteriorated structural members (posts, supports)
• Deteriorated roofs, drains or gutters
• Unmaintained decorative features (cornices, corbels, trim)
• Broken canopies, signs, awnings or standpipes
• Broken or unmaintained stairways, decks or porches
• Unsecured or unmaintained chimneys
• Broken or unmaintained handrails
• Dilapidated fences and gates
• Unmaintained sidewalks, driveways and patios

5. If I am a tenant am I responsible to make needed repairs to the structure?

No, property owners are responsible to make these types of repairs and will receive notice from the city to do so. Tenants are held responsible for keeping the property free of junk, trash and debris, maintaining grass and weeds at a height of 12” or less and a variety of other non-structural compliance requirements.

6. I am a property owner. If my property is found to be in violation, will the Inspector give me a reasonable amount of time to correct the violations?

Our primary goal is always education and voluntary compliance from every property owner. We believe that by working with our property owners to correct any issues with their property, we will maintain the unique quality of our neighborhoods. As a result, our Code Officers will work with property owners to establish reasonable timelines for compliance based on the type of violation and scope of the repair. Extenuating circumstances such as bad weather will also be considered in granting extensions. We expect to see a good-faith effort toward compliance and will direct property owners to the appropriate resources for their situation. 

The City of McKinney offers the Housing Rehabilitation and Reconstruction Program to qualified residents.

7. What could happen if an owner does not comply with a notice to correct a violation issued by the city?

Although the city seeks voluntary compliance, in some instances the city is forced to take other enforcement action to reach compliance. 

This may include:

• Citations: prosecuted through the Municipal Court. 
• Hire contractors to make needed repairs. In this case, the property owner would be billed for the work including a 20% administrative fee. If payment is not made to the city, a lien would be recorded in the deed records against the property.

8. Does the city provide any financial assistance to property owners who want to comply but are not financially able to do so?

Property owners may qualify for assistance with repairs. Information about assistance is provided through the Housing Rehabilitation and Reconstruction Program.

9. What do I do if I do not understand my violation?

Call or email the officer on the notice and provide your name, address of violation and contact information. The officer will talk to you about your specific violation.