Port Jefferson, N.Y., Code of Ordinances ch. 161 (eCode360 ed. 2026) § 161-17
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 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, and frequent destruction of termite tubes and destructive insects by 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 wall 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 rooms and bathrooms 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 of defects in structural members and ceilings below. Maintenance shall consist of repairs which effectively provide the moisture- and waterproof qualities required for the particular floor.
Port Jefferson Code ch. 161 § 161-17 establishes interior structural protection standards for residential properties. The rule requires that crawl spaces, structural members, chimneys, ceilings, walls, and bathroom or toilet room floors all be kept in sound, safe condition to prevent moisture damage, pest infestation, gas leakage, and physical hazards to occupants. Each category of building element carries specific maintenance expectations, such as moisture barriers in crawl spaces, termite control, sealed chimney joints, and waterproof bathroom floors.
Plain English — not legal advice.
Under Port Jefferson Code ch. 161 § 161-17, compliant property operators routinely inspect crawl spaces for moisture and ensure foundation vents, ground barriers, and stud-wall blockings are in place. They also schedule periodic checks for termite activity, verify chimney flues are clear and sealed, and promptly repair loose ceiling or wall sections and any bathroom flooring that shows signs of water penetration. Keeping dated maintenance records for each of these building systems helps demonstrate ongoing compliance with the provision's requirements.
General guidance for property managers — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult an attorney for advice on your case.
Port Jefferson Code ch. 161 § 161-17 gives occupants a basis to expect that crawl spaces, structural components, chimneys, ceilings, walls, and bathroom floors are kept free of hazardous deterioration, moisture damage, and pest infestation. If conditions such as a crumbling ceiling section, a leaking bathroom floor, or evidence of termite damage are observed, tenants may document the issue in writing and notify the landlord, and may also contact the Port Jefferson Code Enforcement office to report a potential violation. Tenant-rights organizations can help residents understand the range of options available when a landlord does not address conditions covered by § 161-17.
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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