Written by Forrest Wall, CAE, Staff Vice President and Industry Relations
Are Those Truly Violations?
In a number of local municipalities with apartment inspection ordinances, AAM is seeing attempts to force retrofits of existing building components with components meeting the standards of the code for new construction. Local inspectors site “violations” that are, in fact, not that at all. A good example of this, which seems to be proliferating, is a requirement that an owner change out existing, operable receptacles with ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs) in certain locations (such as laundry rooms). Although GFCIs are required in the code for new construction, and even in the most recent versions of the International Property Maintenance Code, there is no mandate in Michigan to upgrade existing apartment buildings with GFCIs. Furthermore, the state construction code is clear that existing buildings, as long as they are not being altered or renovated, may be maintained as originally delivered. While many apartment owners may choose to upgrade building components in their properties, it is important to know your rights in this matter. So, pay attention to those inspection reports and question “violations” which require a building component to be changed to meet the latest new construction standard.
Remember Lead Paint Pamphlet When Renovating
Pre-1978 Units
Just a reminder that prior to beginning any renovation work on pre-1978 rental housing under the provisions of the Lead RRP Rule, landlords are required to distribute the Renovate Right pamphlet to tenants and have them sign off that they have received it. This has been an area of emphasis in the EPA’s enforcement activity relative to the Lead RRP Rule, which went into effect in 2010. You will recall that, in addition to the tenant notification, the Lead RRP Rule calls for certain work practices to follow, recordkeeping, and certification for those performing the work. To download a copy of the pamphlet, go to http://www.epa.gov/lead/pubs/renovaterightbrochure.pdf. This pamphlet should not be confused with the Protect Your Family From Lead In Your Home pamphlet, which is given to prospective renters during the leasing process.
Michigan Moves Up In Ranking … On A Good List!
Michigan’s switch from the Michigan Business Tax to the Corporate Income Tax has resulted in a significant improvement in the state’s business tax climate according to the nonpartisan Tax Foundation’s 2013 rankings of all 50 states. The foundation says Michigan has moved from a 2012 overall ranking of 18th to a 2013 overall ranking of 12th. The six-spot jump is the biggest of any state outside of Maine, which jumped seven spots. The only state in the Midwest that outranks Michigan is Indiana, which sits in the 11th spot. AAM supported the change to the Corporate Income Tax back in 2011 due to the MBT’s devastating impact on the real estate industry.