Bellingham's Rental Inspections: The Rules That Matter

Every city handles rental inspections a little differently. In Bellingham, Washington, there are 2 distinct rules that residents and property owners should be aware of. Some are stricter than what neighboring cities enforce, and others are more relaxed. Here is what you need to know.

Tenant Complaint Process

When Bellingham's department gets notice of a building or fire code violation in a rental unit, it can inspect or seek a warrant, and may require proof the tenant first notified the landlord, under BMC 6.15.070.

Key details: Trigger: notice of building/fire code violation. Tenant step: often must notify landlord first. City power: inspect or seek RCW 59.18.150 warrant. Repeat violations: added to annual inspection cycle. Authority: BMC 6.15.070.

A confirmed violation lets the city suspend or revoke the unit's registration, require a fresh certificate of inspection, and, for repeat violations or a 'do not occupy' order, add the property to the following annual inspection round.

Inspection Programs

Bellingham requires every residential rental property to register with the city and undergo a safety inspection at least once every three years under its rental registration and safety inspection program.

Key details: Registration required since: August 1, 2015. Inspection interval: at least every 3 years. Civil infraction, days 1-10: $200 per day. Civil infraction, day 11+: $500 per day. Falsified certificate: gross misdemeanor.

Violations are civil infractions: up to $200 per day for the first 10 days and $500 per day thereafter; knowingly submitting a falsified certificate of inspection is a gross misdemeanor under BMC 6.15.150.

This is one of the stricter rules in Bellingham's municipal code. If you are unsure whether your situation complies, it is worth checking with the city before proceeding.

The Bottom Line

Bellingham's rental inspections rules are a mixed bag. Some areas are strict, others are relaxed, and the details matter. The best approach is to check the specific rule that applies to your situation rather than assuming Bellingham is broadly strict or permissive.

This guide is based on Bellingham's current municipal code. Local rules can and do change, so check the individual ordinance pages for the latest details, penalties, and FAQs.