Housing Inspections

Discover how THD enforces safety standards for existing structures, learn about landlord and tenant rights, navigate lead hazards, manage potential meth lab contamination and master effective cleaning techniques for sewage leaks.

Enforcing Safety Standards for Existing Structures

THD inspects existing structures to ensure and enforce certain minimum building standards that must be in place if the structure is occupied or used. These standards, set forth in Title 55 (Property Maintenance Code), include requirements pertaining to sanitation, maintenance, electrical, mechanical and plumbing systems and more.

THD also responds to complaints pertaining to landlord and tenant rights and responsibilities, as established in the Oklahoma Non-Residential/Residential Landlord and Tenant Acts. If you have a complaint, question or concern about a structure’s safety or compliance—or about your rights as a landlord or tenant, please click here to complete an online complaint form or call 918-595-4200. We’ll conduct an on-site inspection, if necessary, or refer you to the right course of action.

Housing 101

Whether you are an apartment manager, leasing agent, landlord or a renter, it’s important to know your rights and responsibilities. Housing 101 is an annual event to teach residents about the minimum safety standards for housing, including electrical, plumbing, mechanical, safe heating sources, occupancy limitations and more. Legal Aid of Oklahoma presents and answers questions about the Fair Housing Act and Landlord Tenant Act.

LEAD IN THE HOME

THD received a grant from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to reduce lead-based paint hazards in qualifying homes with children under the age of 6 that live in Tulsa County. The inspection identifies lead-based paint, dust and soil hazards in residential properties. The overall goal of the Lead Hazard Control Program is to reduce lead hazards inside the home for the residents of Tulsa County, especially those households with children under the age of 6. THD can potentially remove lead hazards from your home at no cost to you. Learn More

METH LABS

If a house or property is contaminated by a drug lab, contact THD for guidance and information regarding the contaminated property. Only your local health agency can determine if a property has been properly decontaminated. For general questions about drug labs and contaminated properties, please contact us at 918-595-4200 or consult 41 O.S. § 118 (OSCN 2015), Residential Landlord and Tenant Act. To report suspected illegal drug lab activity, contact your local law enforcement agency.

Resources

Methamphetamine Fact Sheet

Interior Clean Up Information for Sewage Leak

Raw/untreated sewage is a health hazard due to the presence of disease-causing organisms, such as bacteria, viruses and parasites. Untreated they may cause property damage and present unhealthy living conditions. Any surface contaminated by sewage requires attention to prevent illness.

When cleaning an area that has been contaminated by untreated sewage, personal protective equipment (PPE) such as gloves, safety glasses and shoes, masks and/or coveralls are necessary.
If the damaged area cannot be cleaned, dried and properly disinfected it should be discarded. Carpet padding is an example of an item that should be discarded and replaced.
Use common cleaning techniques to clean and sanitize the affected areas. Hot water and detergent should be used to clean, after removing sewage matter.
Disinfect with a chlorine solution (¼ cup chlorine bleach to one gallon of water). DO NOT USE UNDILUTED BLEACH. Chlorine bleach is a chemical that should be used with care. CAUTION: Do Not Mix Ammonia Cleaners with Chlorine Bleach!
Use fans and/or dehumidifiers to assure all areas are dry. Thorough drying is essential to prevent odors and bacterial/mold growth.

Resources