The Rental Housing Safety Program in Lakewood, WA, is designed to safeguard tenants by ensuring that rental units comply with established safety standards. Property owners are required to register their properties annually and submit to inspections every five years to maintain these standards. Starting January 1, 2025, the program will introduce new fees, with single-family licenses set at $50 and multifamily units facing a base fee of $50 plus $20 for each additional unit. This initiative aims to enhance awareness and compliance among rental property owners, thereby protecting tenant health and safety. A newly launched website in 2024 necessitates that existing users create accounts to manage their rental registrations and track inspections.

The program provides detailed inspection checklists for various property types, ensuring comprehensive evaluations. Property owners can reach out to the city through the provided email for any questions or concerns. Additionally, resources for finding affordable housing in the region are available for those in need.