Rental property owners in the City of Washington are reminded of the annual registration requirement. 

Since 2015, all rental units must be registered annually by May 1st with the City. In previous years, registration forms were distributed by mail. Beginning last year, registration materials have been sent via email, and all registration forms and related information will be delivered exclusively by email going forward. 

The registration email will include a copy of the Rental Unit Ordinance, inspection information, a fillable registration form, and a link for online payment.

Owners are encouraged to share the ordinance information with their tenants to ensure all parties understand their respective responsibilities. Rental properties are subject to health and life safety inspections every three years. If a property is scheduled for inspection, the owner will be contacted in advance by the fire department and provided time to prepare. 

In accordance with Iowa Code, landlords are responsible for notifying tenants of scheduled inspections.