Minneapolis rental license inspection

Minneapolis's tiered inspection system

Minneapolis uses a tiered system so that higher-risk properties are inspected more frequently. The city assigns a tier (1, 2, or 3) based on property condition, which determines both inspection frequency and ongoing license fees.

Inspection frequency by tier

The city uses this tiering approach to focus inspection resources on properties that need more attention while allowing well-maintained properties to have longer inspection cycles.

What inspectors check

The city's tiering page explicitly calls out examples of life-safety items that contribute to scoring. While the full checklist is more comprehensive, key items include:

The goal is to confirm that the rental meets Minneapolis's basic health and safety standards for tenants. Properties in better condition are assigned lower tiers with longer inspection cycles and lower fees.

Who performs the inspection?

Inspections are performed under the City's Regulatory Services / Inspections Services Division framework. Program administration is through the city, and inspectors are city employees or authorized contractors.

How tiering affects you

The tier assigned to your property affects:

• Inspection frequency: Tier 1 (8 years), Tier 2 (5 years), Tier 3 (1 year)
• License fees: Higher tiers have higher base fees and supplemental fees
• Ongoing compliance: Higher tiers require more frequent inspections and attention

Maintaining your property in good condition can help you achieve a lower tier, which means less frequent inspections and lower fees.

How we help with inspections

As part of our Minneapolis rental license service, we can:

• Help prepare your property to achieve the best possible tier by focusing on life-safety basics
• Coordinate inspection scheduling when inspections are due
• Review inspection reports and help you understand any items that need attention
• Coordinate follow-up if reinspection is needed
• Track inspection cycles and renewal deadlines
• Help ensure ongoing compliance to maintain or improve your tier

Best practices for achieving a lower tier

To achieve Tier 1 (lowest fees, 8-year inspection cycle), focus on:

• Ensuring all smoke detectors are operational and correctly located
• Installing carbon monoxide detectors within required distance of bedrooms
• Verifying electrical systems are safe and functional
• Checking that all doors and windows operate and lock properly
• Confirming heat and basic utilities are working
• Addressing any visible code violations or habitability issues
• Maintaining the property in good overall condition

We help identify potential issues before the inspection so you can address them proactively and achieve the best possible tier.