Watervliet, N.Y., Code of Ordinances ch. 175 § 175-33
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 of 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 floor, under normal conditions of use and floor washing, and the resultant deterioration or 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.
Section 175-33 of Watervliet's Code of Ordinances establishes interior structural protection standards for residential properties. The rule requires that crawl spaces, structural members, chimneys, ceilings, walls, and bathroom floors all be kept in a condition that prevents moisture damage, structural deterioration, gas leakage, and hazards to occupants. Each category of building element comes with specific maintenance methods—such as moisture barriers, termite control, flue clearing, and waterproofing—that are recognized as acceptable means of compliance.
Plain English — not legal advice.
Property owners and managers subject to § 175-33 generally keep crawl spaces ventilated and covered with moisture barriers, maintain structural members in sound condition through shoring or repair as needed, and ensure chimneys and flues are clear and properly sealed. Compliant operators also address loose or defective ceiling and wall sections promptly and keep bathroom and toilet room floors waterproofed to prevent water from penetrating to structural elements below. Routine inspections that document termite activity, moisture intrusion, and masonry condition are consistent with the ongoing maintenance obligations described in this section.
General guidance for property managers — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult an attorney for advice on your case.
Under § 175-33, tenants have a right to occupy a dwelling whose interior structural elements—including crawl spaces, walls, ceilings, chimneys, and bathroom floors—are maintained in a safe and sound condition. If a tenant observes signs of moisture damage, structural deterioration, gas odors from a flue, loose ceiling sections, or leaking bathroom floors, these conditions may constitute violations of this provision. Tenants can report suspected violations to the City of Watervliet's code enforcement office, and may also wish to consult a local tenant-rights organization to understand available remedies.
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 7, 2026 — auto-generated, not yet human-reviewed. See /transparency for methodology.
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