The City of Reidsville has had a long history of being concerned with the living conditions of its residents. A Minimum Housing Code has been in place for nearly 20 years. Revisions of the Code have been done over the years to keep up with the changing needs of the community.

It must be stressed that the City’s housing code is a minimum code, not a “wish list” of what the perfect house would look like. If a house fails to pass this code, it probably is not safe to be occupied. Such houses also have an effect on surrounding properties. Nothing devalues surrounding properties and discourages others from reinvesting in their homes more than an irresponsible property owner that does not maintain a property. These codes also protect communities from out-of-town property owners that may have inherited property that they have never seen and never intend to maintain. These situations lead not only to immediate health and safety problems but can affect an entire neighborhood.

The City’s Codes Inspectors from the Department of Community Development are charged with enforcing this minimum code. See the City's Code of Ordinances, Chapter 4: Buildings, Construction and Related Activities, Article II, Housing Code.

Inspections are triggered by the opening of any new water accounts for City residences. In addition, the City requires that all rental units will need to obtain an annual privilege license from the City’s Finance Department. The license will require a $15 fee and certification from the Department of Community Development that the unit has been inspected in compliance with the City’s Minimum Housing Code within the past three years.