Bethlehem, PA Rental Inspections: Tenant Complaint Process (2026)

Article 1739, the City's Regulated Rental Unit ordinance, gives the Code Official broad authority to respond when a violation is reported at a rental property. 02. 15 is explicit that nothing in the licensing scheme limits or restricts the Code Official's authority to inspect a premises, whether or not it is subject to the licensing requirements, under any other ordinance or code, which covers inspections triggered by a report of a problem rather than a license cycle. 16 lets the Code Official apply to the Magisterial District Judge with jurisdiction in the City for a search warrant upon a showing of probable cause that a violation of Article 1739 or any other City ordinance has occurred.

12 to permit Code Official inspections at reasonable times, on 24 hours' notice, during the Bureau of Inspections' business hours. 19 requires the owner or manager to reply promptly to reasonable complaints and inquiries from occupants, so an occupant's complaint about conditions goes first to the owner, then to the Code Official if it is not resolved.