Dallas requires all rental properties to register and undergo inspections under Chapter 27. Multi-tenant properties (apartments) are inspected at least every three years with a graded scoring system. Single-family rentals must register annually and are inspected at least every five years.
Dallas Chapter 27 (Minimum Property Standards) establishes mandatory inspection programs for all rental properties. Multi-tenant properties (apartments and other multi-unit buildings) must register and are subject to graded inspections at least once every three years. The graded inspection assigns a score based on the number of code violations found. High-scoring properties may qualify for a Self-Certification option, reducing the frequency of city inspections. Single-family rental homes, duplexes, and condominium units must register annually with the City of Dallas. As of October 1, 2025, the annual registration fee is $7 per unit (reduced from the previous $64 per unit). Single-family rentals are inspected at least once every five years, with complaint-based inspections possible at any time. Owners must complete an Owner Self-Inspection Checklist and affidavit confirming compliance with Chapter 27 minimum standards. Registration is managed through the Dallas Code Compliance department.
Failure to register a rental property may result in fines up to $500 per day. Properties that fail inspection must correct violations within a specified timeframe. Repeated failures can result in the property being declared substandard and potentially condemned. Fines escalate with each subsequent violation.
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