Port Jefferson, N.Y., Code of Ordinances ch. 161 (eCode360 ed. 2026) § 161-16
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 joists 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 or joint 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, flashing, waterproof coatings or other suitable means.
Port Jefferson Code ch. 161 § 161-16 establishes minimum standards for the exterior structural integrity of buildings, covering three main elements: foundation walls, exterior walls, and roofing. Foundation walls must be kept structurally sound and sealed against moisture, termites, and vermin; exterior walls must be maintained to resist weather damage and destructive insects; and roofs must remain watertight to prevent interior leakage. The provision lists acceptable maintenance methods for each element but allows for 'other suitable means,' giving some flexibility in how compliance is achieved.
Plain English — not legal advice.
Under Port Jefferson Code ch. 161 § 161-16, compliant property operators routinely inspect and maintain all three exterior systems—foundations, walls, and roofs—on a proactive basis. For foundations, this typically involves monitoring for moisture intrusion, cracks, or pest entry points and addressing them through grouting, waterproofing, or drainage improvements. For exterior walls and roofing, operators generally keep up with painting, flashing repairs, termite shielding, and waterproof coatings to ensure the building envelope remains sound and weather-resistant.
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 § 161-16 gives tenants a basis to raise concerns when a rental unit's foundation, exterior walls, or roof are not being properly maintained—for example, if moisture is entering through a cracked foundation or a leaking roof. Tenants who observe such conditions may document them with photographs and written notices to the landlord, and may also contact the Port Jefferson Code Enforcement office to request an inspection. Tenant-rights organizations can help residents understand what options are generally available when exterior maintenance deficiencies go unaddressed.
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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