During a recent government meeting, officials discussed the pressing issue of non-compliance among rental property owners in Chester, highlighting the challenges posed by absentee landlords and the financial burden on the city due to property neglect.

City representatives noted that out of approximately 12,000 rental properties, only 6,000 are registered, prompting efforts to increase compliance through inspections conducted every three years. The discussion revealed that the city spends over $200,000 annually on garbage collection from neglected properties, not including additional costs related to vehicle wear and staff wages. Officials estimated that the total cost of managing these issues could exceed $1 million per year, factoring in the impact on property values and community aesthetics.

Concerns were raised about the effectiveness of current measures, such as placing liens on properties owned by absentee landlords, which often yield no financial recovery for the city. Officials emphasized the need for stricter enforcement, including the potential withholding of rental licenses for non-compliant landlords. The meeting underscored a collective desire to improve the city’s image and living conditions by holding property owners accountable and transforming neglected areas into green spaces.

The conversation also touched on the complexities of dealing with landlords who operate under limited liability companies (LLCs), making it difficult to enforce compliance. City officials expressed a commitment to developing strategies to address these challenges and enhance the overall quality of life in Chester.