Code Enforcement

Rental Inspections

The Property Rental Ordinance (Ordinance 2443-21) was created to be able to inspect all rental properties in Cheltenham Township.  This Ordinance protects both landlords and tenants.  The purpose of the inspection is to make sure both the tenant and the landlord are maintaining the area they occupy in a safe and sanitary condition.

This Ordinance grants permission to the Building & Codes Inspectors to enter all areas of each rental property to inspect the conditions. The Ordinance also explains the fees associated with these inspections.
If you have any questions regarding this ordinance, please contact Scott Lynch, Fire Marshal & Director of Building/Codes.

Property Maintenance

In June 2006, the Board of Commissioners adopted Ordinance 2110-06 (pdf), which incorporates the International Property Maintenance Code and all of the successor codes following it, into the Township's Municipal Code.  As the name suggests, the Property Maintenance Code establishes minimum requirements and standards for all existing residential and nonresidential structures, both interior and exterior; all existing premises; existing equipment and facilities for light, ventilation, space, heating, sanitation, protection from the elements, life safety, safety from fire and other hazards; and for safe and sanitary maintenance.  A few of the more common issues include:

• Exterior structure appearance
• Rubbish and/or debris on property
• Tall grass and weeds
• Vacant structures
• Vehicles without current license and/or registration
• No fencing around pools
• Improper street address numbering
• Sidewalk, curb and/or driveway disrepair
• Obstructed sidewalks.

The Property Maintenance Code increases protection for both public safety and property values.  Although the vast majority of structures in Cheltenham are beautifully maintained, one problem property can impact an entire neighborhood.

Enforcement of the Property Maintenance Code is managed by the Building & Codes Department located in the Township Administration Building at 8230 Old York Road, Elkins Park, PA 19027. Copies of the 2018 International Property Maintenance Code may be reviewed with the Building & Codes Department during business hours Monday through Friday.

Please report Property Maintenance Code violations to the Code Enforcement Administrator shown below.