If you own or manage rental property in Hatfield Borough, there’s a new local ordinance you need to know about. During the Spring Town Hall meeting on May 14, 2025, Hatfield Borough officials discussed the borough’s residential rental property inspection program, officially adopted under Ordinance No. 557.

This ordinance, which became effective January 1, 2025, is designed to protect public health, safety, and welfare by ensuring that rental homes meet basic standards for habitability and maintenance.

What Hatfield’s Rental Property Inspection Ordinance Requires

Under Ordinance No. 557, all residential rental properties in Hatfield Borough must be licensed with the borough on an annual basis. In addition to licensing, the ordinance outlines a routine rental inspection schedule and enforcement process to ensure compliance. Here’s a breakdown of what landlords and property managers need to know:

  • Annual Registration: All rental units must be registered with the Borough of Hatfield each year.

  • Property Inspections: Properties are subject to inspection at the time of registration.

  • Ongoing Inspections: After initial registration, inspections must occur at least once every three years, or when there is a change in tenant or ownership.

The inspection program reflects a growing trend across Montgomery County and the greater Philadelphia area, where municipalities are adopting similar ordinances to ensure the quality of rental housing and reduce property code violations.

Why It Matters for Landlords, Tenants, and Real Estate Professionals

Whether you're a property investor, a landlord, or a real estate agent assisting clients with rental properties in Hatfield, understanding these regulations is essential. Failure to comply with the ordinance can lead to fines and delays in leasing or selling residential properties.

For tenants, this ordinance ensures that rental units are maintained to a reasonable standard, helping protect renters from substandard living conditions.

Stay Informed About Local Housing Policies

The Hatfield Borough rental inspection program is part of a broader effort to improve housing standards and create safe living environments across the community. If you own rental property or are planning to invest in real estate in Hatfield, now is the time to ensure your properties are properly registered and prepared for inspection.

Source:
Information adapted from Hatfield Borough, May 2025