If your rental property is located in Baltimore County, then you are required to have it inspected according to the county’s criteria, in order to obtain the necessary license. Peace of Mind Property Management helps arrange this inspection for you as part of our landlord services. Here is some basic information to help you prepare your property for Baltimore County inspections.
What does the Baltimore County inspection involve?
Every Baltimore County inspector should be looking for these things in a rental property:
- Smoke detectors
There needs to be a smoke detector on every level of the property. For example, if you have a 3-level house, there needs to be a smoke detector on the main level, the top level, and the basement.
All of the smoke detectors need to be hardwired with battery backup. They also need to be interconnected, which means if one goes off, then they all go off. If the power goes out, then the battery provides backup. - Handrails
If there are 3 or more stairs or risers, then there needs to be a handrail. This applies to stairs both inside and outside the house. - Plumbing
The toilets need to flush, and there needs to be hot running water. - Basement exit
If the basement does not have a window or door leading to the outside, then you cannot have any bedrooms in the basement. - Carbon monoxide detectors
Carbon monoxide detectors need to be installed on every level if there are any gas appliances or fireplaces in the house. If you don’t have any gas appliances in the house but you have a garage, then you also need to have a carbon monoxide detector installed on every level (in addition to the hardwired smoke detectors on every level). - Electrical outlets and light switches
All electrical outlets and light switches need to have cover plates on them. - Any other major safety concerns
The inspector will also check for any other major safety concerns that they think could cause harm to anyone who walks on the property or in the house.
How much does it cost?
The average cost for Baltimore County inspections is $125–150. The registration fee is $60.
How long is the inspection valid for?
The first inspection for a rental property lasts for 3 years. After 3 years, your property needs to be inspected again for renewal.