Everyone who owns residential and/or multi-unit rental properties in the City of South Bend, which they do not personally occupy, must register their rental properties with Neighborhood Services & Enforcement on or before September 1st of every year.
How to Register
The City of South Bend launched a new online application for Landlord Registration, which can be found at the link below. Owners/landlords can register unlimited properties, assign property managers, and update their information throughout the year. Issues and feedback should be submitted to landlordregistration@southbendin.gov.
Click here to complete Landlord Registration
NOTE – Registration is intended for property OWNERS only. If you are a property manager, or other agent for the owner, please instruct the property owner to complete the registration.
Common questions about online registration are answered here.
A demonstration of the online registration process can be found here. The demo of the online registration process starts around the 8 minute, 20 second mark.
You may also register up to FOUR properties by mail. Simply print this Landlord Registration Form, completely fill it in then mail the form and payment to Neighborhood Services & Enforcement, Suite 1300S, 227 W. Jefferson Blvd, South Bend, IN 46601
Associated Costs
- The cost is $5 to register properties with Neighborhood Services & Enforcement. This is per owner/landlord, not per property.
- Failure to renew the registration is subject to a penalty of $300.
- Submitting an incomplete registration may result in a penalty of $100.
Landlord Registration Ordinance
In 2016, the South Bend Common Council passed an ordinance establishing the Landlord Registration program, in accordance with a state law passed in 2014. This ordinance mandates that all landlords of rental units within the City of South Bend must register with Neighborhood Services & Enforcement.
The full ordinance can be viewed here.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the registration valid?
The registration is good for one year. Annual registration is required by September 1st.
How do I add more properties to my registration?
You will have to sign into your online account to add additional properties. It is best to compile a complete list the first time you go to register to avoid paying additional registration fees.
How will I know I am in violation of the ordinance and am subject to a civil penalty/fine?
A notice of violation will be issued to the owner or landlord or designee (as registered online) by first class mail and/or certified mail. After 30 days from the receipt of notice have passed and the owner/landlord has failed to register, the appropriate civil penalty/fine will be assessed. You may see the civil penalty assessed on your tax bill.
Can I use a P.O. Box as an address?
No, you must provide an actual personal or business physical property address. You can provide the P.O. Box as an additional/supplemental address.
Do I have to register a property if it’s a duplex or multi-unit and I (the owner) occupy one of the units?
Yes, you still have to register.
Additional Landlord Registration Information and FAQs
Why It Matters
An average of 70% of all environmental violations in the city exist on properties that are non-owner occupied.
Of all properties identified as vacant and abandoned (V&A), 81% of those properties were owned by someone living outside of South Bend.
91% of the V&A properties that warranted demolition (due to such an advanced state of disrepair) were also owned by someone living outside of South Bend.
Housing Discrimination
If you think you may be a victim of housing discrimination, please visit the South Bend Human Rights Commission.