Ansonia, Conn., Code of Ordinances ch. 13 § 13-18
Same—Basement space
Operative Text
No basement space shall be used as a habitable room or dwelling unit unless: (a) The floor and walls are impervious to leakage of underground and surface runoff water and are insulated against dampness; (b) The total window area in each habitable room is at least equal to the minimum window sizes required in section 13-14 ; (c) Such required window area is located entirely above the grade of the ground adjoining such window area; and (d) The total of openable window area in each room is equal to at least the minimum as required in section 13-14 , except where a mechanical device affording adequate ventilation and approved by the health officer is supplied.
Ansonia Code of Ordinances ch. 13, art. I § 13-18 sets out the conditions under which a basement space may legally be used as a habitable room or dwelling unit. The rule requires that floors and walls resist water intrusion and dampness, that windows meet minimum size standards and sit entirely above ground level, and that each room have sufficient openable window area for ventilation—or an approved mechanical ventilation system in its place. Unless all of these conditions are satisfied simultaneously, a basement space cannot lawfully serve as living quarters.
Plain English — not legal advice.
Under Ansonia Code of Ordinances ch. 13, art. I § 13-18, operators who rent or offer basement spaces as habitable rooms generally ensure that all four conditions are met before occupancy is permitted. Compliant operators typically document that floors and walls are waterproofed and insulated against dampness, that windows are sized and positioned entirely above the adjoining grade, and that ventilation meets the openable-window minimums set in section 13-14 or that an alternative mechanical system has received health officer approval. Maintaining records of inspections, approvals, and any mechanical ventilation certifications supports ongoing compliance with this provision.
General guidance for property managers — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult an attorney for advice on your case.
Ansonia Code of Ordinances ch. 13, art. I § 13-18 establishes baseline habitability standards that a basement dwelling unit must meet, including water resistance, proper window sizing and placement, and adequate ventilation. Tenants living in or considering a basement unit have the right to know whether the space satisfies all four conditions outlined in this provision. Those who believe their basement unit does not meet these standards may consider raising the issue with local housing or health authorities, consulting a tenant-rights organization, or exploring whether a violation of this provision is relevant to any existing housing complaint or legal proceeding.
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 11, 2026 — auto-generated, not yet human-reviewed. See /transparency for methodology.
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