Creative Solutions to Avoiding Property Registration

[Zeb Walters]

Hi BP! I own some properties in a small city in Ohio that is looking to institute an ordinance that would require a landlord to register each property they own within city limits. Along with the registration, the ordinance calls for a registration fee ($35-$100, depending on different criteria) per door. Finally, the ordinance would require all investment properties (each unit) to be inspected every year by a city approved inspector and all expenses would be incurred by the landlord. The reason the city is trying to pass such an ordinance is there are a few landlords that have allowed their properties to deteriorate to the point of becoming severe eye sores and unsafe to live. The Health Department has tried to visit the properties to inspect them, but the tenant/landlord doesn't allow them to enter the premises. I understand where the city is coming from, but I don't agree with the approach. City council has agreed to table the ordinance for now, but is looking for other solutions to this issue. Does anyone have any creative ideas of how a city and local investors can work together to ensure that all properties are safe, habitable and reasonably well-kept without instituting such a harsh, blanketed ordinance meant to keep some of the 'bad apples' in compliance? Has anyone else had any experiences like this?

Any ideas are very much appreciated!

Thanks!