Agenda - Council Work Session - 03/11/2025

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Rental Inspection Procedures and Pre -Inspection Checklist Notes o All plumbing fixtures must be in working order with adequate hot and cold water. o No leaks or improperly installed waste lines. • Kitchen & Bathroom: o Must have operable sinks and appliances (if provided). o Bathrooms must have ventilation (window or exhaust fan). o Flooring must be water-resistant and in good repair. • Electrical & Heating: o Outlets, light fixtures, and service panels must be intact and properly functioning. o Heating systems must be operational and capable of maintaining at least 68°F. Exterior Evaluation • Foundation, Roof & Walls: Must be structurally sound, weather -tight, and in good repair. • Address Numbers: Clearly visible from the street. • Stairs, Railings & Decks: Must be secure and meet safety standards. • Yard Maintenance: No excessive junk, debris, or unlicensed/inoperable vehicles. General Inspection Guidelines • Inspections will focus on health, safety, and fire code compliance —not cosmetic or minor maintenance issues. • The City will not conduct additional background checks on property managers, as state law already requires owners to vet their managers. • Any photographs taken during an inspection must be limited to code violations and require verbal tenant consent. • Inspections will not include personal belongings, furniture, or storage areas unless they pose a clear safety hazard. • Complaints from tenants must first be addressed by the property manager before the City intervenes, unless it's an emergency. Making Rental Inspections More Effective for Everyone By streamlining the pre -inspection checklist, we create a clear, concise, and focused approach that benefits tenants, property owners, and the city alike, • Encourages Compliance: A simpler checklist reduces resistance from property owners and managers, leading to better cooperation and faster improvements in rental conditions. • Prioritizes Safety: Focusing only on essential health, safety, and fire code concerns ensures that inspections address the real risks without unnecessary overreach. • Reduces Government Overreach Perception: A straightforward and transparent process keeps the city's role centered on tenant well-being rather than excessive regulation.