Chester implements rental registration program for 13000 rental units

The Housing & Community Development Committee of Chester, Pennsylvania, convened on March 24, 2025, to discuss key issues surrounding rental housing and property maintenance in the city. The meeting focused on the implementation of a rental registration program aimed at promoting safe housing standards.

The committee began by reviewing an ordinance adopted in April 2023, which was designed to ensure compliance with municipal codes and property maintenance regulations. This ordinance is particularly relevant in communities where tenant-owned properties are prevalent, as it helps maintain housing quality and safety.

Committee members noted that there are approximately 13,000 rental units in Chester, a figure that distinguishes rental units from total housing units, which is reported to be around 14,000. This distinction is crucial, as it highlights the number of actual rental spaces available, such as apartments and rooms, rather than the total number of houses.

The rental registration ordinance mandates that all rental units must be licensed every three years, while tenant-occupied units require annual registration. This systematic approach aims to enhance oversight of rental properties and ensure that they meet safety and maintenance standards.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to continue monitoring the effectiveness of the rental registration program and its impact on housing safety in Chester. Further discussions are expected in future meetings to address any challenges and improvements needed in the implementation of this ordinance.