Bensalem, PA Rental Inspections: Inspection Programs (2026)

Bensalem ties its rental inspection program directly to the annual license required by Sec. 123-14. Once an owner applies, Sec. 123-14(c)(1) requires the Building and Planning Department to inspect the common areas of the rental premises, meaning any area shared by more than one dwelling unit, for Housing Code compliance. Sec. 123-14(c)(2) further requires the department to inspect each dwelling or rooming unit within the premises that has not been the subject of a use and occupancy permit inspection within the preceding three years. Sec.

123-14(c)(3) gives the department 14 days from the inspection to either issue the license or notify the owner or managing agent in writing of the specific Housing Code sections violated. Conditions the department designates as immediately hazardous to public health, safety, or welfare must be corrected within 24 hours of that notice; every other violation must be corrected by the owner within 14 days. Sec. 123-18(c) separately authorizes the director of building and planning or a designee to conduct inspections, surveys, and examinations during reasonable hours after showing identification, and, if an owner refuses entry, to apply to the District Justice of the Peace for a warrant on an affidavit stating the refusal and the reason to believe a violation exists.

An owner who disputes an inspection order can appeal to the building and planning director within 5 days under Sec. 123-19, and, if unsatisfied, to the Bensalem Township Code Appeals Board.