Telford Borough Council approved a new rental inspection program effective Jan. 1, 2026, requiring biannual inspections and annual rental license registrations. The program is designed to address issues like broken HVAC systems and damaged windows, with inspections requiring the presence of either the tenant or property owner. Exemptions include owner-occupied units, rentals to immediate family and institutional housing. While one council member opposed the ordinance citing Fourth Amendment concerns, supporters emphasized the importance of ensuring adequate property maintenance. It is estimated the borough has approximately 300 rental units housing 800 renters. Separately, the council adopted a 2026 budget with a 3.1% property tax increase, projected to raise the tax rate by an additional $30 annually for the average homeowner with an assessed property value of $120,000.
Source: The Reporter; 12/12/2025