Wallkill, N.Y., Code of Ordinances ch. 140 (eCode360 ed. 2026) § 140-19
Protection of interiors
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, frequent destruction of termite tubes or other 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 walls 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 room and bathroom floors shall be maintained so as to prevent leakage of water through the floors, under normal conditions of use and floor washing, and resultant deterioration or defects in structural members and ceilings below. Maintenance shall consist of repairs which effectively provide the moistureproof and waterproof qualities required for the particular floor.
Section 140-19 of Wallkill's Code of Ordinances establishes interior maintenance standards for residential structures, covering crawl spaces, structural members, chimneys, ceilings, walls, and bathroom floors. The rule requires that these elements be kept in a condition that prevents moisture intrusion, structural deterioration, gas leakage, and physical hazards to occupants. It identifies specific acceptable maintenance methods—such as moisture barriers, termite tube removal, flue clearing, and waterproof floor repairs—while leaving room for other suitable means to achieve the same protective outcomes.
Plain English — not legal advice.
Operators of residential properties in Wallkill subject to § 140-19 generally maintain crawl spaces with proper ventilation, ground moisture barriers, and termite controls; keep structural members shored or repaired as needed; and ensure chimneys and flues are clear and sealed against gas leakage. Compliant property managers also address loose or defective ceiling and wall sections before they become hazards, and keep bathroom and toilet room floors waterproofed to prevent water from seeping into structural components below. Routine inspections that document the condition of each element covered by § 140-19 are a common part of a proactive maintenance program.
General guidance for property managers — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult an attorney for advice on your case.
Under § 140-19 of Wallkill's Code of Ordinances, tenants have an interest in habitable interiors free from moisture damage, structural hazards, gas leakage from chimneys, and deteriorating ceilings, walls, and bathroom floors. If conditions such as a damp crawl space, crumbling ceiling sections, or a leaking bathroom floor are present, tenants may report these concerns to the local code enforcement office, which has authority to inspect and require corrective action under this provision. Tenant-rights organizations can help residents understand what documentation to gather and what local complaint processes may be available under § 140-19.
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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