Bristol Township, PA Rental Inspections: Tenant Complaint Process (2026)

Chapter 120 of the Bristol Township Code is enforced by the Building Official, who under § 120-11 is authorized and directed to administer the chapter and to investigate complaints alleging violations. The Building Official or an authorized representative also conducts surveys of an area when undue lapse of time has passed since the last official inspection, or when the condition of the area or the types of properties in it warrant inspection. Entry is during all reasonable hours, after presenting proper identification to the owner, agent or tenant in charge and after obtaining consent from the person in charge.

When consent is refused, the Building Official applies to the District Justice for a warrant, stating by affidavit that entry was refused and that there is reason to believe, based upon complaint, that a violation exists. Nothing in the section prevents entry at any time when an actual emergency exists involving potential danger to life or severe property damage. If the inspection confirms a defect, § 120-8B requires written notice to the owner stating the defects, with repairs to commence within 48 hours and be completed within 60 days from the date of the notice.

Service is personal on an owner found within the Township, otherwise by posting the building and mailing a copy by certified mail to the last known address. A building the Building Official finds dangerous is posted at each entrance and can be ordered vacated forthwith. The Building Official reports findings at every appeal to the Housing Appeals Board, which has three members who are Bristol Township residents not employed by the Township. The Board reverses a decision only where unusual circumstances make strict compliance a hardship greater than the benefit to the public.