But he was most likely targeting me as I just purchased the property and he gave me notice on three other violations, one being absolutely ridiculous (sidewalk uneven).

If I plan on doing anything that would inconvenience them (paint the porch, replace sidewalk) I let them know 'way in advance.Twice a year, I change all the smoke/CO alarm batteries & double-check the thermostat batteries.

Here are a few items they highlighted - repaint concrete sidewalk which had been previously painted and now chipping and replace a cast iron plumbing stack, which is functioning PERFECTLY, only because it is STARTING to barnacle.

Which also means just one roof to replace, one sidewalk to repair, one tax bill, etc. 

But the house is right up against the sidewalk along the front of the house, right up against the line on the right side, and right up against the line on the left side too. 

We also had units on the 2nd floor right above a busy sidewalk and didn't want them falling down on people's heads. 

One roof, one sidewalk or parking area to maintain, one tax bill, all maintenance in one location, etc. 

Way less rentals, less affordability and even more tents on the sidewalks and excrement in the streets.

For instance, in CA when it starts to rain, you will often be invaded by these tiny ants we call cement ants - they usually live under sidewalks or cement porches, and when their ant condos get flooded, they invade your home.  

Brick pavers, higher at house step down half way to sidewalk.