NCJ Number
133278
Date Published
1991
Length
119 pages
Annotation
This manual instructs landlords of rental property in procedures and techniques for preventing persons from using rental housing as a base for illegal activity, especially drug dealing and drug abuse.
Abstract
One section provides instruction in the preparation of the property. This involves meeting habitability standards to show prospective renters that eviction rights have not been surrendered and that the landlord is attentive to the property. Entrances should be kept well lit, and there should be an unobstructed view of the building from the street. Advice for applicant screening includes making clear to all applicants that tenants will be monitored for illegal activity. Other screening guidelines are to establish written criteria for acceptance, thoroughly screen each applicant, and learn warning signs that the applicant would use the premises for illegal activity. Guidelines for rental agreements are to use a contract consistent with current law, point out to the tenant that "loopholes" are addressed in the agreement, and obtain a signature on the property condition to protect against later false accusations. Guidelines are also provided for ongoing property management, the warning signs of drug activity, what to do if a clandestine lab is discovered on the property, eviction procedures, the police role, and renting through the Section 8 Program. Appended relevant ordinances and other supplementary information