Town Proposes Communication With Landlords

The Clayton Town Council is looking at a proposal requiring landlords to register their rental property, so that police and other officials will know who to contact in case of emergencies or other problems.

The information would be kept in a database available to all town departments.

"We're looking for readily available contact information," said Town Manager Steve Biggs. "Improving our communications link with landlords will be valuable to both the town and those who own rental property. There have been times in the past when this information would have proven very helpful."

Many times in recent years, police and other town officials have noticed property damage, caused either by break-ins, weather or tenants themselves, but were unable to notify the owner in a timely manner, he said. Other times, problems were detected that required attention, but without contact information, communication--and action--was slow.

"We're going to be seeking input and participation from landlords and others who are stakeholders in this issue with the hope of working something out that will be helpful to everyone involved," Biggs said. "One of the town's top priorities is communication with residents, and this is an area where communication needs improvement."

The town is considering a plan similar to one that has proven successful in nearby Raleigh. Each rental property would be listed with the name of the owner, the property manager and someone to contact in case those cannot be located. The town would also requre landlords to keep a list of authorized tenants which could be provided by the landlord upon request. The registry would be updated each year and whenever property ownership changes so that it doesn't get out-of-date.

To offset the cost of the new program, the town is proposing a $30 fee per rental property. In the case of multi-unit buildings, the cost would be $30 for the first unit and $10 apiece for each additional unit on the same site.

"We are making every effort to keep the cost to landlords low," Biggs said. "We're not in this to make money. We just want to cover our costs. We're trying to keep the cost down."

Short-term-stay businesses, including motels, bed and breakfasts and health facilities such as rest homes, are exempt.

If adopted, the town would have the option to withhold utility service to those who don't comply.

An outline of the proposed program can be viewed here.