Town of Versailles establishes rental registry program

(VERSAILLES, Ind.) – The Town of Versailles has passed an ordinance that requires owners of rental properties to apply for an annual permit, and it has some residents speaking out against it.

Town Council members say the Rental Registration and Inspection Program was created in an effort to get a better understanding of the community’s housing inventory and the difference between owner-occupied and rental properties. 

“The Town does not have an accurate picture of how many rental properties exist within our community. Establishing a rental registry will provide the data needed to make informed decisions about future housing policies and investments,” said Town Council member Roxanne Meyer. 

The new ordinance will also provide an enforcement mechanism against landlords who have unsafe housing. 

Town officials say they’ve received numerous complaints over the past few years about unsafe living conditions at some rental properties. 

“These reports have included concerns about structural deficiencies, sanitation, utilities, and other issues affecting the health and safety of tenants,” Meyer said. 

This new ordinance will allow the Town to investigate legitimate complaints and inspect rental properties when necessary to verify compliance with applicable health and safety standards.

One Versailles resident is voicing opposition to the measure by saying community members were not given any notice about the ordinance.

Jessica Beach owns several rental properties in town and describes the process as "unimaginable."

"Decisions that directly affect the community should be made through a transparent process, with adequate public notice and an opportunity for residents to be informed and heard," Beach said.

She added, "Bypassing those fundamental principles undermines public trust and raises serious concerns about accountability."

Officials say the ordinance was established as part of the Town’s Comprehensive Plan process which identified housing as one of Versailles’ most important long-term priorities.

Studies indicate that healthy communities typically have an owner-occupied to rental housing ratio of at least 60:40. Town officials believe Versailles is currently closer to a 50:50 ratio. 

The Town Council said they recognize that the overwhelming majority of landlords provide safe, quality housing and properly maintain their properties. 

“This ordinance is not intended to create unnecessary burdens for responsible property owners. Instead, it seeks to establish accurate housing data, protect tenants, and address situations where substandard housing negatively impacts residents and neighboring properties,” Meyer said. 

Rental property owners will have to complete a registration form for free by January 1. There is a $125 inspection fee that the Town can waive if the rental property is in compliance.

The next Versailles Town Council meeting will be held at 7 p.m. on Tuesday, August 11. Versailles Town Hall located at 128 North Main Street