Mount Vernon, N.Y., Code of Ordinances ch. 149 § 149-17
Exterior protection
Operative Text
A. Foundation walls shall be maintained so as to be structurally sound and to prevent entrance of moisture, termites and vermin. Such protection shall consist of shoring where necessary, subsoil drains at footings, grouting of masonry cracks, waterproofing of walls and joints and other suitable means. B. Exterior walls and wall components shall be maintained so as to prevent deterioration due to the elements and destructive insects. Such maintenance shall consist of painting, installation or repair of walls, copings and flashings; waterproofing of joints; waterproof coatings; installation or repair of termite shields; poison treatment of soil; or other suitable means. C. Roofing shall be maintained in watertight condition so as to prevent leakage into the building. Such maintenance shall consist of repairs of roofing, flashings, waterproof coatings or other suitable means.
Mount Vernon Code ch. 149 § 149-17 establishes standards for the exterior structural integrity of residential buildings. Foundation walls must be kept sound and sealed against moisture, termites, and vermin; exterior walls must be maintained to resist weather damage and destructive insects; and roofing must remain watertight to prevent interior leakage. The rule identifies specific acceptable methods for each requirement—such as waterproofing, grouting, painting, and flashing repairs—while also allowing other suitable means of compliance.
Plain English — not legal advice.
Under Mount Vernon Code ch. 149 § 149-17, compliant property operators routinely inspect and maintain foundation walls, exterior walls, and roofing as part of their regular upkeep schedules. This typically involves activities such as grouting masonry cracks, applying waterproof coatings, repairing or replacing flashings, installing termite shields, and ensuring subsoil drainage at footings is functional. Keeping dated records of inspections, contractor invoices, and completed repairs helps demonstrate ongoing compliance with each of the three subsections.
General guidance for property managers — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult an attorney for advice on your case.
Mount Vernon Code ch. 149 § 149-17 gives tenants a basis to raise concerns when a building's foundation, exterior walls, or roof are not properly maintained—for example, when moisture intrusion, pest entry, or roof leaks are present. Tenants may report such conditions to the Mount Vernon building or housing code enforcement office, which has authority to inspect and require corrective action. Tenant-rights organizations in Westchester County can help residents understand how this provision applies to their building and what documentation to gather when reporting a potential violation.
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 7, 2026 — auto-generated, not yet human-reviewed. See /transparency for methodology.
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