Mishawaka city council approves new rental ordinance, takes effect in 30 days

MISHAWAKA, Ind. -- Landlords in Mishawaka are preparing for a series of changes in the form of a new rental ordinance approved by the city Tuesday.  

The ordinance requires landlords to register their properties yearly, as well as undergo mandatory inspections every three years.  

Mishawaka city council president, Gregg Hixenbaugh says it will give city departments like code enforcement and the building department resources to address problematic situations as well as gather more data on sub-standard housing rentals.  

"We have always been concerned with regard to sub-standard housing in Mishawaka," Hixenbaugh said. "Whether that's an owner-occupied residence or a rental property, we believe it's important for the community to have a shared set of values with regard to acceptable housing for our residents." 

The Mishawaka rental program will take effect in 30 days, and once it does landlords in the city will have 180 days to register their properties. 

"The building department will be one logical place for people to start," Hixenbaugh said. "Our code enforcement department as well."  

Under the new ordinance, property managers will have 15 days to fix critical issues such as heating and cooling, while other issues such as missing siding will get 30 days.     

If not resolved within the time given, landlords could be issued $250 in daily fines or even potential litigation. 

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