Blaine, MN Rental Inspections: Inspection Programs (2026)

Section 18-260 gives the city inspector authority to administer and enforce the Residential Maintenance Code and to cause inspections either on a set schedule or whenever there is reason to believe a violation is occurring. A written evaluation of deficiencies from the inspector counts as prima facie evidence in later litigation under section 18-260(b). If an owner, occupant, or other person in charge refuses free access for an inspection, the inspector can seek a court order authorizing entry under section 18-260(c). Where the inspector determines a rental dwelling or unit fails to meet the article's standards, section 18-262(a) authorizes a written compliance order describing the violation's location and nature, setting a reasonable correction deadline, and serving it on the owner or agent by personal service, registered mail, or, if those fail, posting at the dwelling.

Section 18-262(c) lets the inspector demand immediate compliance and take protective action when a violation under section 18-290 poses an imminent peril to life, health, or property. If a dwelling is declared unfit for human habitation under section 18-262(d), the inspector orders it vacated and posts a placard, and any operating license is revoked. An owner who disputes a compliance order can appeal to the city council sitting as a board of appeals under section 18-262(f), which stays enforcement unless a stay would create imminent peril.

If an order goes unresolved, the council can remedy the deficiency itself under section 18-262(e) and assess the cost against the property as a special assessment under Minnesota Statutes chapter 429.