Wichita, KS Rental Property Rules: Repairs & Habitability (2026)
Key Facts
- Governing chapter
- Housing Code, Ch. 20.04
- Required fixtures
- Kitchen sink, toilet, lavatory, tub/shower
- Water requirement
- Hot & cold water at all fixtures
- Minimum heat (Sec. 20.04.040)
- 70°F in habitable rooms
- First-offense fine
- $300 to $1,000
Summary
Wichita's Housing Code requires every rental dwelling to have a kitchen sink, a private toilet and lavatory, a bathtub or shower, and hot and cold running water connected to all three fixtures.
No owner or operator shall occupy...or permit another to occupy any dwelling or dwelling unit...which does not comply with the following requirements: (1)Every dwelling or dwelling unit shall contain a kitchen sink;(2)...shall contain a room, separate from the habitable rooms...equipped with a flush water closet and a lavatory basin;(3)...equipped with a bathtub or shower;(4)...shall be properly connected to both hot and cold water lines...capable of heating water to such a temperature as to permit an adequate amount of hot water to be drawn...
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 35).
Full Breakdown
The Housing Code (Wichita Municipal Code Ch. 20.04) sets the baseline every rental unit must meet before it's fit to occupy: a kitchen sink; a private room with a flush toilet and lavatory basin; a private room with a bathtub or shower; and both hot and cold water piped to all three fixtures, with water heated hot enough to draw an adequate supply at each one. A companion section, Sec. 20.04.040, separately requires heating equipment capable of holding every habitable room at 70 degrees Fahrenheit. The Metropolitan Area Building and Construction Department's Director enforces the chapter and can placard non-complying units.
Violations & Fines
First violations are misdemeanors carrying a $300-$1,000 fine under Sec. 20.04.200, rising to $2,000-$2,500 for repeat offenses, plus possible jail time up to twelve months.
Frequently Asked Questions
What fixtures must a Wichita rental have?
Is heat included in the habitability standard?
Who enforces Wichita's Housing Code?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Wichita
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