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Multi-Family Housing

The City of Tulsa Code Enforcement Division and the Fire Marshal's office have a dedicated team for inspecting Multi-Family properties in Tulsa. If you have questions, please contact 311 and a service ticket will be opened for the team to review. 

   


Frequently Asked Questions

What does the team look for during a inspection?
The inspection is focused on issues that affect public health and safety. Some examples are listed below, but the inspection is NOT limited to this list:

  • See Checklist linked above for a more detailed list
  • Fire safety equipment installed and maintained
  • Doors and windows in good repair with locks, doors opened from inside without a key
  • Structure insect and rodent free
  • Electrical: no exposed wiring, light switches and outlets in working condition
  • Walls and ceilings in good condition (interior/exterior)
  • No sign of interior or exterior sewer leaks/ backups
  • Plumbing: all toilets and sinks in working order without leaks with hot and cold water
  • Appliances are clean and in working condition (i.e. stove, refrigerator)
  • Exterior of property sanitary and in good repair
  • Heat and air (if provided) in working order and adequate for all rooms

What should I expect during the walkthrough?
The typical inspection will take 30 minutes to 1 hour depending on the size and condition of the property. You are welcome to join the team if you wish and we welcome questions.

What if there are Code deficiencies?
The goal of the team is to educate property owners and renters on the importance of safe housing. Any issues that are observed during the inspection will be addressed using a reasonable compliance date.

What is the Landlord Tenant Act 
The Oklahoma Landlord Tenant Act is the governing state law over the responsibilities between a landlord and tenant. Download

What is considered multifamily?
Four or more apartments in one building or parcel would be considered a multifamily complex.

Do these codes only apply to multifamily?
Yes and No. In general, the fire code, property maintenance code, nuisance code and zoning code are enforced city wide however, there are particular codes within the fire code, property maintenance code and zoning that address multifamily complexes specifically.

If there are violations, what is the notification process?
If violations are found the apartment complex and owners will receive a notice of violation and time frame in which to correct these items.

What does the team look for during an inspection?
The inspection is focused on issues that affect public health and safety. Some examples are listed below, but the inspection is NOT limited to this list:

  • See Checklist linked above for a more detailed list
  • Fire safety equipment installed and maintained
  • Doors and windows in good repair with locks, doors opened from inside without a key
  • Structure insect and rodent free
  • Electrical: no exposed wiring, light switches and outlets in working condition
  • Walls and ceilings in good condition (interior/exterior)
  • No sign of interior or exterior sewer leaks/ backups
  • Plumbing: all toilets and sinks in working order without leaks with hot and cold water
  • Appliances are clean and in working condition (i.e. stove, refrigerator)
  • Exterior of property sanitary and in good repair
  • Heat and air (if provided) in working order and adequate for all rooms

What should I expect during the walkthrough?
The typical inspection will take 30 minutes to 1 hour depending on the size and condition of the property. You are welcome to join the team if you wish and we welcome questions.

What if there are Code deficiencies?
The goal of the team is to educate property owners and renters on the importance of safe housing. Any issues that are observed during the inspection will be addressed using a reasonable compliance date.

What is the Landlord Tenant Act 
The Oklahoma Landlord Tenant Act is the governing state law over the responsibilities between a landlord and tenant. Download

What is considered multifamily?
Four or more apartments in one building or parcel would be considered a multifamily complex.

Do these codes only apply to multifamily?
Yes and No. In general, the fire code, property maintenance code, nuisance code and zoning code are enforced city wide however, there are particular codes within the fire code, property maintenance code and zoning that address multifamily complexes specifically.

If there are violations, what is the notification process?
If violations are found the apartment complex and owners will receive a notice of violation and time frame in which to correct these items.

How do I report an issue with my apartment?
We recommend you contact your apartment complex first, so they have an opportunity to fix or repair the issue. However, if the apartment complex is not fixing or repairing the issue you can report this to the City’s Customer Care Department by calling 311 during regular business hours, online through Tulsa311.com and using the "Other Request" service option, or by emailing Tulsa 311.

Can I remain anonymous when I file a complaint?
If violations are found in a common area, then the complainant can remain anonymous. If the violation are in an individual unit, the lawful tenant must allow the team access.