Elevator Inspection Ordinance - New South Memphis Landlords

Housing and Building Standards Tennessee 3 Minutes Read ยท published February 08, 2026 Flag of Tennessee

In New South Memphis, Tennessee, landlords must follow city and state rules for elevator safety and inspections to keep tenants safe and comply with local ordinances and state elevator programs. This guide explains who enforces inspections, how to arrange inspections, typical compliance steps, penalties, and where to find official forms and contacts. It summarizes the official City of Memphis building-permits and code pages and the Tennessee elevator-safety program so landlords can act promptly and document compliance.[1]

What counts as an elevator under local rules

Elevators, dumbwaiters, escalators, and similar passenger or freight lifting devices serving a building rented by a landlord are generally covered by local building code enforcement and state elevator safety programs. For device definitions and jurisdiction, consult municipal code and the state elevator program pages.[2]

Who enforces inspections and when

The City of Memphis Division responsible for building permits and inspections handles local enforcement and permit review; state-level oversight and mandatory inspection schedules are administered by the Tennessee elevator safety program.[1][3]

Confirm whether your device is classified as an elevator before scheduling work.

Penalties & Enforcement

Enforcement can include monetary fines, orders to cease operation, mandatory corrective repairs, and court actions; specific dollar amounts and escalation for repeat or continuing offences are not specified on the cited pages below.

  • Fine amounts: not specified on the cited page.
If an elevator is declared unsafe, do not operate it until cleared by an inspector.

Applications & Forms

The specific form names, numbers, fees, and filing instructions for elevator inspection, elevator permit, or elevator work filings are not specified on the cited city or state pages; landlords should contact the City of Memphis Building Permits & Inspections office and the Tennessee elevator safety program for current forms and fee schedules.[1][3]

How to schedule and complete an elevator inspection

Follow these practical steps to comply: determine jurisdiction, obtain any required permits, hire licensed elevator contractors for repairs and testing, schedule the official inspection, correct violations, and retain inspection records. Use the official city and state pages to confirm current scheduling channels and required paperwork.[1][3]

Keep inspection and maintenance records on file for at least the period required by your insurer or the city.

FAQ

Do landlords in New South Memphis need to have elevators inspected?
Yes; elevators serving rental properties are subject to local building inspection and state elevator-safety requirements, and landlords must arrange inspections through the City of Memphis and the Tennessee elevator program.
How often must inspections occur?
The inspection interval required by state or local rules is not specified on the cited pages; check the Tennessee elevator program and city building pages for the current schedule.
Who can perform repairs and testing?
Work must be done by licensed elevator contractors where licensing applies; confirm licensing requirements with the state program and obtain city permits if required.

How-To

  1. Confirm whether the device is classified as an elevator under city and state definitions.
  2. Contact the City of Memphis Building Permits & Inspections to ask about required permits and the submission process.[1]
  3. Obtain any required forms and fee information from the city or state elevator program and hire a licensed elevator contractor as needed.[3]
  4. Schedule the official inspection through the authorized city or state channel and ensure an authorized inspector attends.
  5. Complete any corrective work identified, obtain re-inspection if required, and keep all permits and inspection reports on file.

Key Takeaways

  • Landlords must coordinate with City of Memphis and Tennessee elevator authorities to ensure legal inspections and safe operation.
  • Specific fines, escalation, and form numbers are not specified on the cited pages; contact the authorities for current details.

Help and Support / Resources

  1. [1] City of Memphis - Building Permits & Inspections
  2. [2] City of Memphis - Code of Ordinances
  3. [3] Tennessee - Elevator and Amusement Device Safety

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