RUCO (Rental Unit Certification of Occupancy) FAQ
Is there a cost for the RUCO inspection?
There is not a cost for the initial RUCO inspection. After the RUCO is issued there could be fines charged to the tenant and / or landlord if violations aren’t corrected in the time specified. If the dwelling is rented without obtaining the required certification the landlord / owner could be fined.

How do I know if the unit I’m renting has been issued a RUCO or not?
You can check for dwellings that have been inspected or apartment complexes by going to the City’s website to search "rental certificate.” Or, call 336-373-2111.
 
Can the tenant request an inspection?
Yes, the tenant can call and schedule an inspection. You just need to call 336-373-2111 (Local Ordinance Enforcement office) and give the address of where you live, your name and phone number. An inspector will call you and set up a date and time to meet for the inspection.

What are some responsibilities of the tenant while renting?
The tenant should keep the dwelling in a clean and sanitary manner, empty trash regularly, make sure smoke detector functions (battery), and keep utilities on (water, gas, electric). The tenant should also report any repairs needed to the landlord in a timely manner.  

What are some of the responsibilities of the owner / management company / landlord? 
Management should respond in a reasonable time frame (depending on severity) when needed repairs exist. All equipment provided by the landlord should be in working condition (heating / cooling system, dishwasher, stove, etc.). Plumbing, heating, and sewage systems should be maintained. 

When should I call the City and report that there are violations in my unit?
After you have contacted your landlord or management company and no one has responded within a few days, at least by a phone call, try to reach the landlord or management company again. Then, depending on the severity of the repair, contact our office. Communication between the tenant and management is very important.

Why do I need to sign a permission slip for you to come inspect my apartment / house (if you won’t be there at the time of the inspection)?
By law your management / landlord can’t let a government official in to do this type of inspection without your consent.

Why is this inspection needed?
So all rental property is inspected on a regular basis and help improve the availability of safe and affordable housing, as well as to promote the protection of the life, health, welfare, and safety of Greensboro residents.

May I (the tenant) call and request this inspection if it hasn’t been done yet?
Yes, the tenant may call and request the inspection. 

Can I refuse this inspection?
Yes, you may refuse the inspection. If you choose not to let an inspector in, he or she will leave. You may also contact your landlord / management to let him / her know of your concerns. However, if the initial RUCO has been issued and / or the inspector has probable cause to request an inspection and you refuse the request, an administrative warrant will be issued giving the inspector the right to enter the property. 

What if violations are found?
A list of the violations is sent to the landlord / management to make him or her aware of the problems. The landlord / management will be given 45 days to make the repairs.

What if they don’t make the repairs within 45 days?
If the stated violations are not corrected within the allotted time, the case will roll over into a substandard housing case. Which means if the repairs aren’t corrected when going through this process, the house may be condemned and any residents will be forced to move out.   

(Last update May 18, 2009)