On June 24, 2020, the Austin Code Department (ACD) sent the first Notice of Intent to suspend Repeat Offender Program (ROP) rental registration. Two properties received notices stating that failure to correct current code violations by July 24, 2020, would result in the loss of ability to lease vacant units until issues are corrected. Current tenants are not affected. 

Suspension is an enforcement tool provided under Austin City Code § 4-14-50(A). Implementation of the tool began in early February 2020, but the execution was delayed as a result of the COVID-19 response efforts. Property owners who received notices will have 10 days from the date of suspension to file an appeal. 

The Suspension and Revocation process is reserved for those properties that are enrolled in ROP and exhibit habitual noncompliance. “Our goal is to make sure that Austin residents are living in safe conditions,” Roig said. “This is one measure that we can take, but ultimately what we want to achieve is compliance and to create safe living conditions.”

The two properties that received the letters are located on 2400 Wickersham Lane, Austin, TX, and 7929 Gault Street.

The Repeat Offender Program (ROP) was created in 2013 as a rental registration program for properties with multiple code violations. The intent of City Council in passing this ordinance and its amendment (Ordinance No. 20130926-012; Ordinance No. 20141120-003) was to ensure Austin renters are living in properties that meet minimum health and safety standards, as defined by the International Property Maintenance Code (IPMC).

Austin Code Department makes sure city codes and ordinances are met so Austin continues to be a livable city. We do this by educating, collaborating and partnering with neighborhoods, businesses, nonprofits and other City of Austin departments.