Rental Property Rules in Charleston, WV (2026)
2 verified rental property rules for Charleston, West Virginia, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
Rental Registration
Charleston requires every residential rental unit to hold a city rental license, issued free of charge but subject to inspection and revocation.
Charleston residential rental license required
Significant RestrictionsCharleston, WV Code of Ordinances Sec. 18-1173
On July 1, 2010 and thereafter, it shall be unlawful for any owner to lease or rent, or hold out for rent or lease by advertisement or otherwise, a rental unit located within the city without possession of a valid residential rental license for that rental unit, authorized by the city and complying with all provisions of this article. The residential rental license requirement provided for in t...
Repairs & Habitability
Charleston's Housing Code requires every dwelling unit to have working heat to 70°F, hot water, a kitchen sink, and adequate light and ventilation, enforced through code-official correction orders.
Charleston Sets Minimum Rental Habitability Standards
Some RestrictionsSec. 14-142.
Every dwelling shall have heating facilities suitable for heating habitable rooms to a minimum temperature of 70 degrees Fahrenheit, at a distance of three feet from the floor during ordinary minimum winter conditions, which are properly installed, maintained in a safe working condition and shall be adequately ventilated. No cooking shall be permitted in any basement unless approved by the chie...
Looking for Kanawha County county-wide rules?
County ordinances apply to unincorporated areas and may supplement Charleston city rules.
Rental Property Rules in Kanawha County →