22.200.020 - Declaration of findings and intent.
A.
It is found and declared that there exist, within The City of Seattle, buildings together
with appurtenant structures and premises that are substandard, deteriorating, in danger
of causing or contributing to the creation of slums or otherwise blighted areas, and
hazardous to the health safety and general welfare of the public.
B.
It is further found and declared that these conditions are the result of, among other
causes: inadequate original construction; dilapidation; failure to repair; lack of
proper sanitary facilities and maintenance; structural defects; vacant or abandoned
buildings or properties; overcrowding; electrical, mechanical and other defects increasing
the hazards of fire, accidents or other calamities; uncleanliness; inadequate heating,
lighting and ventilation.
C.
It is further found that maintenance of the housing stock is critical to the health,
safety and welfare of the general public and it is the intent of this Code to assure
the preservation of the existing supply of housing in The City of Seattle by establishing
minimum standards and an effective means for enforcement and by encouraging the rehabilitation
and re-use of existing structurally sound buildings.
D.
It is further found and declared that arbitrary eviction of responsible tenants imposes
upon such tenants the hardship of locating replacement housing and provides no corresponding
benefit to property owners.
E.
It is further found and declared that tenants who do not respect the rights of others
impose unnecessary hardship.
F.