Tough Ordinance For Landlords
Just passed in Marietta, GA...anyone else have this in their area?
"The ordinance requires that city rental properties pass an inspection, with the landlords then receiving a business license to continue renting. Failure to obtain the license can result in fines up to $1,000 and/or up to six months in jail."
Ouch.....lots of landlords in my area are not too happy.
What makes them unhappy?
The process and the time it takes?
The costs?
The possible need to make improvements if they happen to have an issue?
The loss of control of another aspect of their investing?
At some level knowing that everyone is up to a specific standard does have advantages when you are competing the market.
I would not like the overhead of the process and I would be concerned about how the standards are applied. I do support the idea that every renter should get safe and functional property when they rent. I have directly managed SFR's in bad areas so know what sometimes goes on
John
[addsig]
This has been in place in Iowa for quite a while. They get to charge big fees for inspection and always find some little thing wrong so they can reinspect. Another charge. If the fire marshal has to come (3 units or more) its even more. It does keep things safer but the fees are outragous and if you get on their bad side they will pick you apart and make more work for you than you could have ever imagined.
Unless there's a chance of repealing them (yeah right) think politically. When I got into rentals, I talked to the city inspectors even before buying, told them of my plans, asked them for advice and information, showed them I care. Now? Sure, there are fees, but the sailing is smooth, because they like me and know (or at least think...) that I care about my rentals and tenants, which I do.
Marietta City Ordinance requiring Landlords to license and inspect is injuncted:
http://www.mdjonline.com/articles/2004/06/11/268/10147229.prt