Beginning in February 2005, the University of Virginia has funded a property maintenance inspector position within the City of Charlottesville’s Neighborhood Development Department. This inspector enforces building maintenance requirements under both City code and the Virginia Statewide Building Code and enhances housing safety, with a focus on Off-Grounds University student housing (including fraternities and sororities). Students are also encouraged to request inspections of indoor areas of student housing.

The inspector works with staff from the University’s Fire Safety office and the City Fire Marshal’s office to promote safety through inspections and educational opportunities.

Steve Equi, our Inspector, is a member of the Property Maintenance Division of Neighborhood Development Services. He upholds and enforces the Virginia Maintenance Code and Charlottesville’s Code Ordinances, both of which promote clean, safe, and attractive neighborhoods. Steve investigates complaints and initiates investigations into violations observed during daily proactive inspections. Complaints are generally investigated within 24 hours, while emergencies that threaten the community's health and welfare are handled immediately.

Steve is dedicated to these neighborhoods:

• Jefferson Park Avenue (JPA)
• Venable 
• 10th & Page
• Fry’s Spring
• Fifeville
• Lewis Mountain
• Star Hill
• Barracks Road

Students living in these areas and/or within the City of Charlottesville may contact Steve by phone at 434-970-3310 or by email at [email protected].

These are some of the types of issues/violations investigated:

• Blight/Unsafe Structure Abatement
• Tenant and Landlord Responsibilities
• Accumulations of Garbage, Refuse, etc.
• Overgrowth of Weeds
• Graffiti Violations
• Inoperative Motor Vehicles

Contact Steve with any issues or questions, or if you would like him to inspect your residence.