HomeMy WebLinkAboutA002 - Council Action Form, June 2, 1981 COUNCIL ACTION FORM
NO: 06-02-81
SUBJECT: Request for Modifications in the Rental Housing Code
BACKGROUND:
On April 7, 1981, Council referred to staff recommendations prepared by the
Ames Tenant-Landlord Service to modify the Rental Housing Code. Attached for
Council 's reference is a copy of the original request. The first request deals
with a definition for a convenience outlet. The City staff has no objection to
the addition of a definition for a convenience outlet, however, in order to
address the actual concerns raised, it would appear that other sections of the
Code would have to be amended. We believe that the intent of the Electrical Code
is to avoid electrical improvisations, such as plug adapters in the ceiling
fixtures, or excessive use of extension cords. Section 13.29 of the Code
specifically states that "each habitable space or room shall have at least
two (2) electrical outlets, and an overhead light may be counted as an electrical
outlet" . Staff agrees that there are occasions when one of these outlets may not
be situated in a convenient, accessible location. It is our recommendation that
in order to accomplish the intended objective of providing for "convenience out-
lets" in habitable rooms, that Section 13. 29 Electrical (5) needs to be revised
to read as follows:
"Each habitable space or room should have at least two electrical
outlets. At least one should be a convenience outlet while another
may be an overhead light which may be counted as an electrical outlet.
A convenience outlet is defined as an electrical outlet where an
electrical cord may be easily and directly plugged with a minimum
of inconvenience."
The second request for modification to the Rental Housing Code deals with the
owner or operator's responsibility for installing a stove or range and a
refrigerator. Staff is in full support of this suggestion, since it clearly
states a responsible party and avoids interpretation problems. The third
suggestion deals with an alternate inspection form. The City just recently
revised the old inspection form. We feel that the revised form is more complete
and does allow for a thorough inspection report. If Council concurs with the
second recommendation dealing with appliances, that item could be checked under
the "other" section of the inspection form.
MANAGER'S RECOMMENDED ACTION:
It is recommended that the City Council refer this matter to the City Attorney
for preparation of amendments to the Rental Housing Code, specifically Section
13.3-1 -and 13.29(5) Convenience Outlets, and Section 13-38-1 and 2.
COUNCIL ACTION: