Thinking about renting out your home in Warrington? The process is straightforward once you know how inspections, registration, and renewals fit together. You want safe, compliant housing and a smooth lease cycle without last‑minute surprises. In this guide, you’ll learn what the township checks, when to file, how renewals work under Pennsylvania law, and how to avoid common pitfalls. Let’s dive in.
Warrington rental rules at a glance
Warrington Township requires annual rental registration and annual inspections for every rental unit, enforced under the township’s rental housing inspection ordinance. The program uses the International Property Maintenance Code and International Fire Code as standards. You can review the local ordinance details in the Warrington Township rental housing inspection code.
Pennsylvania law still controls lease rights and duties. Notice-to-quit timelines and security deposit rules come from the state’s Landlord and Tenant Act. You can read the statute’s text on notice requirements and timelines.
Annual registration and timing
Each rental unit must be registered every year. Deadline: January 31 for annual payment per unit. The township’s 2021 fee schedule lists a registration fee of $140 per unit. Always confirm current amounts with the Code Enforcement office because fees can change. See the Warrington Township 2021 Fee Schedule for reference.
You must also designate a local agent within a 50‑mile radius unless waived by the township. Update your registration whenever there is a change of tenancy or ownership, not just at year end. The ordinance outlines notice, access, and reinspection procedures in the program rules.
How inspections work
Scheduling and access
The township mails inspection notices to the owner and may notify listed tenants. You are responsible for coordinating access with your tenant. If a tenant refuses entry, the Director can seek an inspection warrant from a court. The access and rescheduling rules are detailed in the inspection procedure section.
What inspectors check
Inspectors use IPMC and Fire Code standards. Common items include:
- Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors that are present, correctly placed, and working
- Clear, safe exits and operable egress windows in sleeping rooms
- Sound stairways, handrails, and guards
- Safe electrical systems, including GFCI where required
- Heating that maintains habitable temperatures, plus adequate hot water
- Leak‑free plumbing and sanitary kitchens and baths
- Exterior safety, including house numbers, roof and gutters, and clear walkways For a sense of typical checklist items, review this IPMC-derived inspection checklist example.
Results and fixes
If you pass, the township issues a notice of compliance. If violations are found, you will receive a written order with a deadline to correct. Imminent hazards must be fixed within 48 hours. Other issues often receive up to 30 days, depending on severity. Reinspection fees can apply starting with the second reinspection. See corrective timelines in the inspection rules.
Penalties if you skip
Noncompliance is a summary offense. Fines can reach up to $1,000 per day for each day a violation continues, and the township can place liens for unpaid charges or seek court relief. Details are in the enforcement section.
Renewals and tenant changes
Lease renewal timing in Pennsylvania
When you plan to end a tenancy at expiration, Pennsylvania’s statute sets notice-to-quit periods. The general rule is 15 days for leases of one year or less and 30 days for leases longer than one year. Always confirm your lease language and check the state statute on notices for specifics.
Security deposits at renewal
Pennsylvania caps deposits at two months’ rent in year one, then no more than one month’s rent starting in year two. If you hold more than allowed at renewal, you generally must return the excess. Deposits held long enough may require interest and specific escrow handling. See the state’s deposit provisions summarized here: security deposit rules in Pennsylvania.
Township steps when occupancy changes
If a new person moves in, update your township registration. Depending on timing, you may need a reinspection. Warrington also notes that a Use and Occupancy inspection is required for resale or lease situations. You can confirm procedures in the township’s FAQs and how-to page.
Pre-inspection prep checklist
Use this quick list to avoid common fail items:
- Test and replace all smoke and CO alarms; confirm proper locations on every level and outside sleeping areas
- Clear all exits and make sure egress windows open properly
- Add or tighten handrails and guards where required; repair loose steps
- Correct electrical hazards: install GFCI where needed, cover open junction boxes, and remove overloaded power strips
- Check plumbing for active leaks and verify hot water supply
- Service the heating system so it can maintain safe temperatures
- Address sanitation and pest issues; remove debris and fix moisture problems
- Verify house numbers are visible from the street and exterior areas are safe
A simple timeline you can follow
- Early January: Confirm fee amount and submit annual registration. Map your renewal dates to the January 31 deadline.
- 30 to 60 days before inspection: Walk the unit using the prep checklist and schedule repairs.
- When you receive notice: Coordinate access with your tenant. Reschedule once if needed according to township rules.
- If violations are cited: Correct by the township deadline. Prioritize any items noted as imminent hazards within 48 hours.
- At renewal: Align lease dates with registration, confirm deposit compliance, and provide state-required notices if the tenancy will end.
Need local guidance?
If you are weighing whether to rent, renew, or sell, you deserve clear options and a smooth plan. For neighborhood insight and a grounded, step‑by‑step strategy, reach out to The Walton-Winn Team. We are here to help you make confident decisions in Warrington and across Bucks County.
FAQs
Do I have to register every year if my tenant stays?
- Yes. Warrington requires annual registration and payment per unit, even without a change in occupants. See the township code reference.
What is the current Warrington rental registration fee?
- The 2021 schedule lists a $140 per-unit fee. Confirm the latest amount with Code Enforcement using the Fee Schedule reference.
What if my tenant refuses an inspection?
- The owner must facilitate entry. If access is refused, the township can seek an inspection warrant. See inspection procedures.
How long do I have to fix violations in Warrington?
- It depends on severity. Imminent hazards often require correction within 48 hours. Other items may have up to 30 days. Details are in the correction timelines.
Does Warrington control rent increases or renewals?
- The local program focuses on registration and habitability, not rent control. Renewal and notice rules follow Pennsylvania law and your lease. Review the state statute on notices.
What are the rules for security deposits at renewal in Pennsylvania?
- Deposits are capped at two months’ rent in year one and one month thereafter, with specific escrow and return rules. See the deposit provisions.
