The Role of Property Maintenance:
Enforcement of the residential rental property regulations of the Borough of Raritan.

The inspection of all properties and provision of response to complaints and inquiries regarding the proper maintenance of property and buildings.

Enforcement of the Borough regulations for the storage, and placement for pick up, of trash, recycling, and bulk items.

Services

• Respond to complaints and inquiries regarding the maintenance and upkeep of residential and commercial properties and structures within the Borough.
• Maintain records of all residential rental properties registered in accordance with Borough requirements.
• Inspect all rental units within the Borough of Raritan prior to reoccupancy.
• Inspect all properties to maintain compliance with the Borough recycling and waste disposal regulations.

A Letter to Business Owners:

Subject: Compliance with Raritan Borough Property Maintenance Guidelines

Dear Business Owner,

I hope this letter finds you well. As part of our ongoing efforts to maintain the aesthetic appeal and safety of our community, we would like to remind all business owners of the importance of adhering to the Raritan Borough Property Maintenance Guidelines. These guidelines are designed to ensure that all properties contribute positively to the neighborhood's overall appearance and do not negatively impact neighboring properties.

### Key Guidelines for Compliance

**1. Exterior Appearance:**

- Keep your property looking neat and in good condition to match neighborhood standards and avoid negative impacts on nearby properties.

**2. Landscaping:**

- Maintain lawns and bushes trimmed and tidy. Remove any overgrowth, litter, or debris. Ensure open areas are evenly graded and free of holes, mounds, or unsafe conditions.

**3. Signs and Billboards:**

- Ensure all permanent signs and billboards are well-maintained. Remove or repair any that are weathered, peeled, or cracked. Fix or remove any broken or non-functioning electrical signs.

**4. Windows and Display Areas:**

- Keep all windows visible to the public clean and free of marks. Avoid storing materials in display areas unless screened from view. Maintain any screening in good, clean condition.

**5. Building Exteriors:**

- Keep storefronts and building exteriors in good repair and painted as needed to prevent deterioration. Match any repairs with the original design and materials.

**6. Temporary Signs and Advertisements:**

- Remove temporary signs or ads after the event or sale they advertise, or within 60 days, whichever is sooner. No more than 33% of any single window area should be covered with temporary signs.

**7. Awnings and Marquees:**

- Ensure awnings and marquees are well-maintained and do not pose a safety hazard. Remove or repair any that are damaged or deteriorated. Keep fabric awnings free of excessive wear and tear.

**8. Scaffolding:**

- Temporary scaffolding or equipment for construction, repair, or maintenance must not remain in place for more than 90 days without permission from the Code Enforcement Officer.

As the Property Maintenance Officer, I am responsible for enforcing these guidelines. All nonresidential properties are subject to inspection by myself or the Zoning Officer. We are authorized to enter and inspect properties to ensure compliance. Business owners are expected to provide free access for these inspections.

If a violation is identified, we will issue a written notice specifying the violation and the reasons for it. A minimum of five days will be allowed for correction. If the violation is not corrected within this time frame, we may take the matter to Municipal Court for compliance. Recurring violations may result in immediate fines without additional notice.

We prefer to work collaboratively with our business community to maintain the high standards that make Raritan Borough a desirable place to live and work. By adhering to these guidelines, you contribute to the overall well-being and attractiveness of our community.

We appreciate your cooperation in this matter. If you have any questions or need further clarification on the guidelines, please do not hesitate to contact us at [Phone Number] or [Email Address].