City Officials Urge Landlords To Join Pre-Rental Voucher Program

Mayor Jon Mitchell and city health officials are urging New Bedford landlords to take part in a Pre-Rental Voucher Program.

The program is voluntary. For $100 the city will inspect your property before its leased to a tenant, and award a certificate of compliance. Landlords can then use that certificate in Housing Court if their apartment has been damaged and they're attempting to evict the tenant.

Health Director Brenda Weis sees the program as a way to improve housing stock in New Bedford.  "The more properties that look good, says Weis, the more desirable our city will be."

Landlord Joe Perreira had a positive reaction to the program, saying its been a while since any programs have been favorable for landlords.

Again, the program is voluntary. Officials say its a pilot program and will run through the end of the year and then evaluated to determine its future. You can contact the Health Department for more information.