Even if you are not a landlord, it's important to know the requirements for rental properties in your area. Cities with rental property registrations can take action if a rental property in your area falls into disrepair, so know that you can submit a violation complaint if a neighboring rental property becomes an issue in your neighborhood.
If you are a tenant, you should be aware that your rental must be maintained by your landlord to meet safety requirements, and that you can contact your city hall to complain if your rental property does not meet city standards.
- To facilitate neighborhood stabilization.
- Foster clean and safe rental properties without diminishing the availability and affordability
- Enhance partnerships and communication with property owners and tenants.
Each city establishes its own criteria for rentals, so its important to check with the city hall for each city in which you currently or plan to rent. Fees typically range from $15 - $75 for registration and safety inspection.
Some cities require an annual inspection and registration, while others require a safety inspection only when there is a change of ownership or occupancy. There are stiff fines for non compliance with registration or for failure to bring a property to livable standards, and those fees can range from $200 - $2,000 per day.
Your city hall will be able to direct you to the correct department for more information.
