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Rental Housing Inspection Program

Rental Housing Inspection Program FAQs

How does the city determine that a property is a rental?

The City receives monthly ownership data from the Sacramento County Tax Assessor’s Office. If the property address differs from the owner’s mailing address, or if the property has multiple residential units, an information packet is sent to the owner. This prompts the owner to either register the property or submit an exemption request.

Is there a form that has to be filled out to register a property?

Yes. Registration forms are mailed directly to property owners. You can also submit the form online.

Are any units exempt from the Rental Housing Inspection Program?

Yes. Certain properties may qualify for exemption from the Rental Housing Inspection Program. Exemptions may apply to:

  • Owner-occupied units 
  • Properties built within the last five years 
  • Units regularly inspected by another government agency (with documentation and approval) 

If a unit is inspected by another government agency (such as SHRA), the property owner must submit current proof of SHRA participation within 30 days of submitting the Application for Exemption, and every two years thereafter to maintain the exemption.

Required documentation must include:

  • Tenant’s full name 
  • Property address 
  • Tenant code 
  • Check date

This information can be found in the detailed ledger available through the SHRA Landlord Portal.

For units inspected by any other local agency, documentation must demonstrate that the unit receives annual inspections in accordance with HUD guidelines or include written confirmation from the agency showing that the unit is participating in their program. The Application for Exemption can be submitted online.

What if my property is not a rental or is no longer being rented?

If your property is not a rental or is no longer being used as a rental, you must submit an Application for Exemption to update City records.

  • The exemption form is available on the RHIP webpage.
  •  Please complete Section 3 of the form and clearly explain why the property is not, or is no longer, a rental. 

This helps ensure the City’s records are accurate and that you are not incorrectly included in the Rental Housing Inspection Program.

Who is responsible for the payment of annual fees?

The property owner is solely responsible for all program-related fees.

What is a local contact representative & why are they required to be within 35 miles of Sacramento City Hall?

A Local Contact Representative is someone authorized to act on behalf of the property owner. This person must live or work within 35 miles of Sacramento City Hall to ensure timely service of notices, if necessary.

Does the property owner need to be present for the inspections?

Yes. Either the property owner or their listed Local Contact Representative must be present during the inspection.

Does the property owner need to contact the city to schedule the inspections?

No. The City will notify the property owner, tenant, and registered Local Contact Representative by mail at least two weeks prior to the scheduled inspection.

How can I prepare for the inspection?

You can prepare by reviewing the Rental Housing Inspection Program Checklist used by the City of Sacramento, available on the RHIP homepage. 

What if my property is already self-certified?

Self-certified property owners must conduct annual inspections and inspect each unit when there is a change in tenancy. These properties are subject to random audits, with at least 10% selected for re-inspection each year. Owners will be notified in advance if selected.

How do I find out if a property is registered with the Rental Housing Inspection Program?

A list of registered properties is available on the City’s website. It includes addresses of properties within Sacramento city limits whose owners have submitted completed registration forms.

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