Nicholasville, KY Building Safety: Elevator Maintenance (2026)

Section 6-606(a) sets the maintenance standard for elevators, dumbwaiters and escalators: they must sustain safely all imposed loads, operate properly and be free from physical and fire hazards. Proof of inspection has to be visible. The most current certificate of inspection must be on display at all times within the elevator or attached to the escalator or dumbwaiter. The alternative is to keep the certificate available for public inspection in the office of the building operator. The section does not print an inspection interval or name the agency that issues the certificate.

Section 6-606(b) adds an availability rule for buildings equipped with passenger elevators: at least one elevator must be maintained in operation at all times when the building is occupied. The exception covers a building with only one elevator, which is permitted to have it temporarily out of service for testing or servicing.

The owner carries the duty. Section 6-102(b) requires equipment required by the regulations to be maintained in good working order and makes the owner or the owner's designated agent responsible for maintenance of buildings, structures and premises. Section 6-108(a)(2) lists an elevator or moving stairway among unsafe equipment when it is in such disrepair that it is a hazard to life, health, property or safety of the public or occupants. The Administrative Official can condemn that equipment and place the notice on the equipment itself under section 6-108(c). If the owner does not comply within the time given, section 6-108(d) calls for a placard bearing the word "Condemned". Anyone who operates placarded equipment, and any owner who lets someone operate it, is liable for the penalties, and the placard comes off when the defect is eliminated under section 6-108(f).