Longview, TX Rental Inspections: Inspection Programs (2026)
Key Facts
- Covers
- Complexes with 3+ units, common ownership
- License term
- Annual, expires every April 1
- Fees
- Application, annual, late, reinspection fees
- Complaint reports go to
- Environmental Health Division
- False statements
- Misdemeanor offense
Summary
Longview requires a city-issued license for every multi-family dwelling complex of three or more units, backed by mandatory city inspections and landlord-conducted tenant move-in inspections.
The administrator is authorized to conduct such inspections as the administrator deems necessary to ensure compliance with all provisions of this article. The administrator shall have right of entry at any reasonable hour upon the premises. The administrator shall have the authority to inspect all unoccupied dwelling units upon giving reasonable notice to the owner, landlord, resident, or property manager.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: June 2026: This code is current through Ordinances 4635 passed 06.25.26).
Full Breakdown
Under Chapter 19, Article VI (the multi-family minimum housing code), no person may own, operate, manage, or maintain a multi-family dwelling complex without a valid license from the city administrator, renewed annually and expiring each April 1. The administrator may inspect any unit at any reasonable hour, with notice for unoccupied units, and without notice for occupied units on credible reports of serious health or safety violations. Separately, landlords must inspect each unit with the tenant at move-in, sign and retain the report, and keep records on-site for the administrator to review.
Violations & Fines
Operating without a valid license is prohibited; failing to inspect units, keep inspection records, or produce them for the administrator can cause the complex to fail inspection; a false statement on any license application or inspection report is a misdemeanor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Longview require a rental license for all landlords?
How often does the city inspect rental units?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Longview
Texas rules heatmap·Compare Longview to another location·View the Texas rental inspections overview
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