Old Saybrook, Conn., Code of Ordinances ch. 166 (2026) § 166-1

A. The basic purposes of this Housing Code are: (1) To establish minimum standards of health and safety for rental dwellings and rental dwelling units. (2) To improve housing conditions. (3) To maintain property values. B. Inherent in the organization of this code compliance program are: (1) The definition of basic responsibilities (what is to be done); and (2) The delegation of authority to execute those responsibilities to the Board of Selectmen and the designated Compliance Officers. C. This code deals basically with the owner's and occupant's responsibilities to keep existing rental housings in decent condition: (1) To see to it that it is not occupied by more persons than are legally permitted. (2) To keep it in proper repair. (3) To maintain it in a sanitary condition. (4) To see that it remains properly ventilated and lighted. (5) To make sure that it has the required facilities for fire safety. (6) To ensure that required services (heat, hot and cold water) are provided for within the minimal requirements of law. D. The emphasis of this code is on a service operation to assist rental housing improvement. E. This Housing Code emerges as an orderly relationship between means and ends and evolves a balance between responsibilities of landlords and tenants and extends coverage over additional environmental factors outside the dwelling units themselves. F. The Town of Old Saybrook has traditionally enjoyed a wholesome community life which this code seeks to preserve and maintain for future generations. G. This Rental Housing Code, by its nature, imposes a succession of duties and, increasingly, patterns of mutual and reciprocal obligations upon landlords and tenants. When this is made central to the understanding of Housing Code administration, issues become more clearly definable.