Neighborhood Services Department - Neighborhood Inspections

Rental Dwelling Inspections

It is the desire of the City of Chesapeake to render service to the landlord and tenant alike. With the Cooperation of all parties concerned, Chesapeake can work toward eliminating its problems of blighted rental housing.

The purpose and intent of this program is to ensure the public health, safety and welfare in rental dwelling units located within designated Special Emphasis Areas. This program is designed and intended to prevent property deterioration and neighborhood blight in areas by requiring proper building maintenance and continued compliance with all applicable regulations.

No owner, managing agent or person in control of any dwelling or dwelling unit within the special emphasis area shall permit any person to occupy such property as a tenant, lessee or otherwise for valuable consideration unless the dwelling or dwelling unit shall have been inspected prior to occupancy and shall have been determined to be in compliance with all applicable laws, ordinances, and regulations. A certificate of approval will be valid for one year from the date of issuance or until such time that a change in occupancy occurs, whichever event is the last to occur.

Guidelines for Landlords (500 kb, PDF)