Rental Inspections

Program Overview

This program is administered by the Fire Department in coordination with the Building Department.

The purpose of this code is to establish minimum requirements to safeguard the public. The housing code enforcement of minimum property standards is a major part of conserving our City’s older housing stock. This form has been designed to provide both investor/owners and tenants general information on the housing code, and inspection fees assessed to property owners for performing inspections on rental property.

The housing code enforcement process begins with your commitment to provide adequate, safe and sanitary living conditions. It takes the joint efforts of investor/owners and the City, that as a property owner or tenant you are familiar with health and safety conditions that not only affect an individual’s living environment, but the quality of life in our city.

View the Rental Housing Inspection Checklist (PDF) for more information.

Program Scope

What does the program cover?

Chapter 156 of the Code of Ordinances applies to all properties or portions thereof which are occupied on a rental basis or if in return for housing, a tenant agrees to occupy and maintain the premises and pay utilities.

Inspection Process

What is the process for obtaining a Rental Certificate of Occupancy?

All owners of rental property must comply with the Code standards. All property owners shall submit an application requesting a Rental Certificate of Occupancy. Upon receipt of an application, the City conducts an inspection of the premises and issues Rental Certificates of Occupancy.

Inspection Occurrence

How often are inspections required in order to obtain Certification?

Inspections are required bi-annually in order to receive a Rental Certificate of Occupancy. The property owner or property custodian must submit a Rental Certificate application to Public Safety at 1133 66th St  prior to scheduling an inspection.

Fee Schedule

City code requires that ALL rental properties have a Certificate of Inspection before occupancy is allowed. Fees are payable to the City of Windsor Heights at the Public Safety building, 1133 66th St PRIOR to an inspection or re-inspection.

Rental Housing Conversion Fee

The fee is $250 per building.

Rental Housing Inspection/Certification Rates

This fee is $150 per building (includes one unit) and $30 for each additional unit within the building. * A charge of $25 will be assessed to the property owner for not showing up for the inspection.