Rental Homes Did you know: It is illegal to rent, lease, or offer for rent or lease any residential unit or property without first obtaining a license therefore. A Residential Rental License shall be issued by the Code Official if: 1. An application is submitted indicating the owner and manager, the number of units and building for which application is sought, the type of units intended, and any other pertinent data sought by the Code Official. 2. An inspection is performed on the property sought to be licensed and all violations disclosed thereby either corrected or waived by the Building Code Board of Appeals. 3. All application and inspection fees are paid. Licenses are effective for two (2) years. In order to safeguard the safety, health and welfare of the public, the Code Official or his representative is authorized to enter any structure or premises at any reasonable time for the purpose of making inspections and performing his duties under this code. Examples of items checked during a rental licensing inspection: U.L. approved smoke detectors on each floor, including the basement, and within 8 feet of all approved sleeping areas. Seal around the furnace and hot water flue pipes where they penetrate the basement wall or the chimney wall. The pressure/temperature discharge pipe on the hot water heater must not end higher than 4" above the floor. Electrical: Proper sized fuses are required and must not be over 20 amp. Each room must have either a switched overhead light or a switched duplex receptacle (outlet) for lighting. Kitchens must have grounded outlets. Bathrooms must have GFCI's (ground fault circuit interrupters). Storage must not be within three feet of the furnace and hot water heater. Sleeping areas are not allowed in basements (unless proper egress is available). Handrails are required on basement stairs, stairways to second floor areas, and on all stairs (including porches) with three or more risers. Exterior:
All property must be free of debris, garbage, rubbish, scrub growth, tall grass, etc. All fences, garages, shed, pools, decks, etc. must be maintained in good repair. All exterior surfaces must be sealed against weather and free of peeling paint. All unlicensed and/or inoperable vehicles must be removed.