City of Staunton
Home MenuProperty Maintenance FAQs
Are issues with tree maintenance on private property covered by the Virginia Property Maintenance Code?
Generally, no. That is usually a civil matter between property owners.
Does the Virginia Property Maintenance code cover mold or mildew?
No, however, the issue(s) that is causing the mold or mildew usually is covered.
If I have told my landlord of issues in my rental, but they have not fixed them yet, what should I do?
First, check your lease to make sure the issues are the responsibility of the landlord to fix. If the issues are the responsibility of the landlord and they have not fixed them in a timely manner, please call the Property Maintenance Inspector at 540-332-3862 ext. 12. The inspector will have to schedule a date and time to come look at the issues and determine if they are violations of the Virginia Property Maintenance Code.
Is the open storage of inoperable vehicles an issue covered by the Property Maintenance Inspector?
No, it is covered by the Police Department. Call the non-emergency line at 540-332-3842.
Does Property Maintenance handle anything with trash cans or dumpsters?
Property Maintenance handles nuisance trash on properties, but not the trash cans or dumpsters. Public Works has policies on trash cans and can be contacted at 540-332-3892.
Do I call the Property Maintenance Inspector if I think someone is building something without a permit?
Yes. We can check if they have an active permit and if not, then we can notify them if they need one.
What should I do if there is trash in the alley/undeveloped street behind my house?
Alleys/undeveloped streets are areas of land that are set aside for use by the adjoining neighbors. It is up to those adjoining neighbors to maintain or improve that land. Thus, the Property Maintenance Inspector does not get involved with alleys/undeveloped streets.
Does the Virginia Property Maintenance Code only pertain to residential property?
No, it also applies to commercial properties. However, we do not have jurisdiction over state and federally owned properties.
Who regulates lead paint removal?
The EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) has regulation for lead paint. They can be reached at 1-800-424-LEAD (5323). Or email our regions Lead Enforcement, Annie Hoyt, at hoyt.annie@epa.gov
Who regulates air quality?
The Virginia DEQ (Department of Environmental Quality) regulates air quality. Visit https://www.deq.virginia.gov/our-programs/enforcement for a list of contacts for different types of pollutions.
