@Jeffrey McKee Some municipalities require it in order to get an occupancy certificate issued that will allow tenants to put utilities in their name. I own rental in some of these areas. Inspections are not a big deal when properties are vacant. But if Commerce is requiring an annual inspection that seems taking it a bit to far in my opinion. Also, city of Dallas has a bad reputation for calling out way too many repairs required before such occupancy certificates can be issued. So I tend to avoid the city of Dallas. Because I help other investors purchase in other municipalities that do not require any landlord registration or inspections. There is so much out there to purchase. Pick the past of least resistance, and less out of pocket for that matter.
Personally I don't like them when they require the owner to make upgrades or repairs that are above the standard of the neighborhood. While many of the requirements are "good" in theory, like backflow prevention devices on hose bibs, to me it is unfair if they don't require this on every house vs just rentals.
While some people think it adds a level of safety or "upgrade" to the community, to me it is a cost and that cost will be passed on to the tenants, who could by choice decide to live in a house without the checklist vs living in one that requires the checklist.
To me it is a violation of the 4th Amendment....illegal search and seizure. Normally most people would not allow city officials with enforcement powers into your private residence. Plus many owners just work around the idea by keeping water in their name and billing back the tenants to get around the city regulations. Tough to fight city hall though. I guess you fight back by buying in cities that don't require inspections, and then watch them complain why they have no workforce housing.