Kokomo, IN Rental Inspections: Inspection Programs (2026)

Section 160.05(A) subjects every rental unit and premises within the city to inspection by the Rental Housing Officer. Under Section 160.05(B), the Kokomo Board of Public Works and Safety sets a fee schedule covering the actual cost of inspections, including labor, subject to Common Council approval by resolution, and separate fees may be charged for each re-inspection where multiple visits are needed. Section 160.05(F) allows the city to contract with outside inspectors, who must report to the Rental Housing Officer, who alone retains enforcement authority.

Where an owner or tenant refuses entry after proper notice, Section 160.05(E)(1) bars the Officer from inspecting without first obtaining an inspection warrant under the procedure at IC 36-7-9-16, though Section 160.05(E)(2) preserves the Officer's ability to conduct an emergency inspection when there is probable cause of imminent danger to life, property or public health. No inspection fee is charged under Section 160.05(G) when an inspection turns up insufficient evidence of a material violation, or when the Board of Public Works and Safety finds the same on appeal under Section 160.10.

The program implements the chapter's purpose in Section 160.11, protecting neighborhoods through minimum maintenance standards enforced by direct inspection, and was established by Ordinance 6424, passed June 12, 2006.