SPOKANE, Wash. – Spokane landlords face new challenges following the City Council’s vote to amend an ordinance that requires landlords to register their properties with the city.
The amendment to the city’s ordinance passed with a 5-2 vote. Supporters say the move seeks to make landlords more accountable, while opponents worry it imposes excessive regulations.
Landlords who are not registered will no longer be able to raise rent or evict tenants. The aim is to incentivize more landlords to register and pay a fee based on the number of units they oversee.
“One of the most alarming aspects of this ordinance is that it restricts housing providers from evicting dangerous tenants that are committing illegal acts if they are not registered with the city,” said one concerned speaker.
The amendment intends to strengthen the existing ordinance and ensure landlords maintain property safety. Another Spokane resident remarked, “It also protects honest and fair landlords who want to do the right thing for their tenants.”
The original ordinance, which received unanimous support last year, saw some opposition to the recent amendment as potential government overreach. Concerns were voiced regarding tenants’ safety if landlords face these restrictions.
Others favor the requirement for landlords to hold a business license, similar to service providers, to ensure accountability. “Every other profit-inducing activity that we have in the city requires a business license,” was noted during the meeting.
While the City Council shows differing opinions on the recent amendment’s specifics, they all concur that landlords should register their properties, as it is mandated by law.
Readers are encouraged to refer to the Spokane City Council’s official website for further information on registration requirements and ordinance details.
