Clarkstown, N.Y., Code of Ordinances ch. 157 (eCode360 ed. 2026) § 157-19
Interior protection
Operative Text
A. Crawl spaces shall be maintained free of moisture, and the flow of air from such spaces into walls above shall be effectively barred so as to prevent deterioration of structural members. Such provisions shall consist of maintenance of openings in foundation walls to provide adequate circulation of air in the crawl space, covering the ground in the crawl space with a moisture barrier, installation of drains outside the structure if the crawl space is below surrounding grade, blocking openings in stud walls to prevent flow of air and moisture into walls, frequent destruction of termite tubes from the soil to wood floor members above, poison treatment of the soil and other suitable means. B. Structural members shall be maintained so as to be structurally sound. Such protection shall consist of shoring, reinforcement or repair where necessary, frequent destruction of termite tubes or other appropriate means. C. Chimneys and flues shall be maintained so as to be structurally sound and to prevent leakage of gases into the structure. Such maintenance shall consist of clearing flue stoppages, sealing open joints, repairing masonry where necessary and other suitable means. D. Ceilings and walls shall be maintained so that parts which become loose or defective do not constitute a hazard to occupants. Such maintenance shall consist of removing and replacing loose or defective sections. E. Toilet room and bathroom floors shall be maintained so as to prevent leakage of water through the floor, under normal conditions of use and floor washing, and resultant deterioration or defects in structural members and ceilings below. Maintenance shall consist of repairs which effectively provide the moistureproof and waterproof qualities required for the particular floor.
Clarkstown, N.Y., Code of Ordinances ch. 157 § 157-19 establishes interior structural protection standards for residential properties. The rule requires that crawl spaces be kept dry and properly ventilated, structural members remain sound, chimneys and flues be sealed and clear, ceilings and walls be free of loose or hazardous sections, and bathroom and toilet room floors be waterproofed to prevent leakage and deterioration. Each category of maintenance comes with specific methods recognized as acceptable means of compliance, though other suitable approaches may also satisfy the standard.
Plain English — not legal advice.
Under ch. 157 § 157-19, compliant property operators routinely inspect crawl spaces for moisture intrusion and maintain foundation vents, ground moisture barriers, and drainage systems as needed. They also schedule periodic checks of structural members for termite activity or deterioration, keep chimney flues clear and joints sealed, promptly replace loose ceiling or wall sections, and repair bathroom and toilet room floors to preserve their waterproof integrity. Documenting these inspections and repairs helps demonstrate ongoing compliance with the provision's maintenance requirements.
General guidance for property managers — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult an attorney for advice on your case.
Ch. 157 § 157-19 gives occupants a basis to raise concerns when interior structural conditions—such as a damp crawl space, a deteriorating ceiling, a leaking chimney, or a bathroom floor that allows water to seep through—are left unaddressed by a property owner. Tenants who observe such conditions may report them to the local code enforcement or building department in Clarkstown, which has authority to inspect and require corrective action. Tenant-rights organizations can help residents understand how to document conditions and what remedies may be available under local housing codes.
General guidance for tenants — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult a tenant-rights organization or attorney for advice on your case.
Generated November 9, 2026 — auto-generated, not yet human-reviewed. See /transparency for methodology.
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