§ 188-2. Purpose.

A. 

Purpose. The purposes of this code are to protect and preserve the public health, safety and welfare in all existing structures and to prevent deterioration and blight of buildings and neighborhoods by establishing minimum standards governing the maintenance, appearance, condition and occupancy of residential and nonresidential premises and related open lands; to establish minimum standards governing utilities, facilities and other physical components and conditions essential to making the aforesaid facilities fit for human habitation, occupancy and use; to fix certain responsibilities and duties upon owners and operators and distinct and separate responsibilities and duties upon occupants; to require the regulation of dwellings; to authorize and establish procedures for the inspection of residential and nonresidential premises; to fix penalties for the violations of this code; to provide for the right of access across adjoining premises to permit repairs; and to provide for the repair, demolition or vacation of premises hereby declared to be remedial and essential for the public interest. It is intended that this code be liberally construed to the benefit of the Borough, its taxpayers and residents and to effectuate the purposes as stated herein.

B. 

Intent. This code shall be construed to secure its expressed intent, which is to ensure public health, safety and welfare in so far as they are affected by the continued occupancy and maintenance of structures and premises. Existing structures and premises that do not comply with these provisions shall be altered or repaired to provide a minimum level of health and safety as required herein.