More cities now require annual registration
A growing number of metros have introduced rental licensing programmes that require landlords to register every unit each year. The goal is to improve safety standards and give cities better data on their rental stock — but missed deadlines now carry real penalties.
Fines for operating an unregistered rental range from $250 to $2,000 per unit, and in some cities an unlicensed landlord cannot legally evict a tenant until the registration is complete.
What you need to file
Annual registration form for each rental unit
A current safety certificate covering smoke and carbon monoxide alarms
Proof of liability insurance
Local contact details for an owner or manager
Staying compliant all year
Set a reminder 60 days before each renewal date and book inspections early, as certified inspectors are often booked out in the weeks before a deadline. Keep digital copies of every certificate so you can respond quickly to a tenant or city request.
