Detroit Inspectors Target 143 Apartment Buildings With Heating Problems

DETROIT (WWJ/AP) - Detroit inspectors are putting city apartment building owners on notice to have their heating systems working amid cold weather or face potential fines.

The city says Wednesday its Building Safety, Engineering and Environmental Department (BSEED) is targeting 143 buildings that over the past year have been issued orders to address issues with heating and cooling systems.

Inspectors have been visiting the buildings to determine whether the ordered fixes have been made. If they haven't, tickets and fines are being issued. The department is hiring additional inspectors and accepting inspection reports from two inspection companies.

"Renters are often at the mercy of their landlords and so this is part of a stepped up effort to make sure the owners of these buildings are in compliance with their heating and cooling systems, as well as other important code and safety issues," David Bell, Director of BSEED, said in a statement.

BSEED also is accepting complaints from residents about heating problems or other serious issues. Any rental property resident who is experiencing heating problems or other serious issues at their building can contact BSEED by calling 313-628-2451 or email propertymaintenance@detroitmi.gov.

For more information, visit detroitmi.gov/bseed.

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