Rental Housing

West Des Moines offers many types of rental homes, including apartments, townhomes, condos, and single-family houses. A "rental property" is any home where the owner does not live, even if the people living there are family members.

Rental Housing Inspection Program

To keep our neighborhoods safe, the City inspects rental properties every two years. Our goals are to make sure all rentals meet the City's safety and maintenance standards.

  • Licensing: All rental properties must be licensed and inspected every two years by the Building Division.
  • Standards: Properties must follow the West Des Moines Property Maintenance Code.
  • Process: Owners must register their property and set up an inspection. If repairs are needed, owners usually have 30 days to finish them.
  • Fees: The license fee depends on how many units are on the property. This fee covers the main inspection and the first follow-up visit.
  • Certification: Once fees are paid and repairs are done, the City issues a Rental Housing Certificate.

Resources for Owners and Tenants

Contact the Rental Housing Division

If you have a complaint about a rental property or need help with a license, please contact us: