Common Rental Violations Checklist

MANKATO AND BLUE EARTH COUNTY
HOUSING AND REDEVELOPMENT AUTHORITIES

As a landlord you have a responsibility to maintain your rental units in compliance with codes and laws. We are providing this checklist as a way of assisting you in "pre-inspecting" your rental properties(is) for the most common areas of concern found by our inspectors over the recent months. Please complete this checklist and bring it with you on the scheduled inspection.

• Smoke detectors missing, improperly installed or not working
• House address not visible from the street (missing, no contrasting color or too small)
•  Misuse or overloading of extension cords
• Use of multiple adapters plugged into outlets
•  Missing/broken screens and storm windows
• Storing of items within 36" in front of electrical service panel
•  Missing or burnt out light bulbs
• Ground fault outlets (G.I.) missing/incorrectly wired in kitchen/bath
• Cover plates on switches and outlets broken or missing
• Overgrown weeds and foliage around buildings
• Rain gutters and down spouts pulled away from building
•  Peeling paint, especially on window trims
• Rotting soffit or fascia boards
• Gas cooking ranges not working (generally due to lack of cleanliness)
• House wiring improperly done
• Accumulations of trash, garbage and junk

This list of "common" violations is not necessarily all inclusive, but does indicate the most frequently noted violations/complaints at rental units within the City of Mankato. While the regularly scheduled City of Mankato inspections are an opportunity for you to assure yourself things are well with your property, they should not be relied upon to be the only check made on your rental unit(s). You, as a landlord, have an ongoing obligation to provide code-compliant rental property. Failure to keep your rental property in good repair results in complaints from tenants and neighbors and/or notices of violations during inspections. Violations create costly and time-consuming reinspection and repair and may result in criminal charges.   

For more information contact Mankato's Housing Office at 387-8638 or email staff.