If you own rental property in Louisville, recent changes in local ordinances could significantly impact how you manage your units. Two key initiatives—the “Lead-Safe Housing Registry” and the “Rental Registry Ordinance” are designed to enhance tenant safety, promote housing code compliance, and ensure proactive property management.
Here’s a breakdown of what you need to know to stay compliant and protect your investment.
1. Lead-Safe Housing Registry
The Louisville Metro Government has introduced a phased Lead-Safe Housing Registry to protect residents, particularly children, from lead poisoning. This initiative applies to rental properties built before 1978, the year lead-based paints were banned for residential use.
Key Requirements:
- Lead-Hazard Evaluations: Property owners must have units inspected by a Kentucky Certified Lead Risk Assessor. Any identified hazards must be addressed by certified professionals.
- Tenant Notifications: Landlords must inform current and prospective tenants about any lead hazards and the remediation plans.
- Compliance Deadlines:
– Properties built before 1940: Register by November 30, 2025.
– Properties built between 1940 and 1965: Register by November 30, 2026.
– Properties built between 1966 and 1978: Register by November 30, 2027.
Additionally, properties housing a child with elevated blood lead levels must undergo evaluations within 60 days, regardless of the property’s age.
Why It Matters:
Lead poisoning can cause lifelong health issues, including learning difficulties and behavioral problems. Louisville Metro’s proactive measures aim to reduce these risks for tenants.
For more information on how to comply with the Lead-Safe Housing Registry, visit the official program page.
2. Rental Registry Ordinance
In December 2022, the Louisville Metro Council passed the Rental Registry Ordinance, requiring all rental properties to be registered with the city. This measure enhances communication between property owners and local officials and ensures adherence to housing codes.
Key Components:
- Registration Requirements: All rental property owners must register their properties, providing contact information for themselves and any managing entities.
- Fees: Registration fees vary based on zoning classifications:
– $25 for properties in R-4 and R-5 zones.
– $250 for properties in C-2 and C-3 zones. - Proactive Inspections: Starting in June 2024, 10% of registered properties will be randomly inspected each year, focusing on areas with a high concentration of rentals.
- Non-Compliance Penalties: Fines of up to $100 per day per housing unit can be imposed for unregistered properties.
Exemptions: Certain properties, such as short-term rentals, hotels, and government-owned housing, are exempt from this requirement.
Why It Matters:
This ordinance promotes safe, healthy housing while holding property owners accountable for maintaining their units to code.
For details on how to register your rental property, visit the Rental Registry information page.
Take Action Now
Whether you own an older rental property or manage a newer one, these initiatives are critical to your compliance and success as a landlord. Proactively addressing lead hazards and registering your units will protect your tenants and help you avoid costly fines.
Have questions or need assistance navigating these requirements? Don’t hesitate to reach out. Let’s work together to ensure your property complies with Louisville’s new standards!
For more information, visit:
– Lead-Safe Housing Registry Details
– Rental Registry Ordinance Details
By staying informed and proactive, you can navigate these changes seamlessly while contributing to the safety and well-being of Louisville’s residents.