If you own rental property in Kansas City, you need to know about Ordinance 231019—and fast. This new ordinance changes how landlords are allowed to advertise their rental properties, with a focus on eliminating language that could be considered discriminatory. Whether you manage a handful of single-family homes or multiple multifamily units, understanding these updates is critical to avoiding fines and staying compliant.
Let’s break down what you need to change—and why it matters.
What Is Ordinance 231019?
Kansas City’s Ordinance 231019 was passed to prevent discrimination in rental housing advertisements. The goal is to level the playing field for all applicants by ensuring landlords focus on the property—not the person they’d ideally like to rent to.
This means that any reference to a prospective tenant’s income, credit score, criminal background, or use of housing vouchers could now be interpreted as discriminatory. The new rule aims to prevent bias during the initial marketing phase.
What Landlords Must Remove From Ads
Under the new ordinance, landlords must immediately revise how they present rental listings. Here are the key things that must be removed or avoided in all advertisements:
• Criteria for an Ideal Tenant
Do not describe who you’re looking for. Phrases like “quiet professional,” “ideal for a single person,” or “must have good credit” are no longer acceptable.
• Income Requirements or Source of Income
You may not include any language about how much a tenant must make, nor exclude tenants based on how they earn their income (e.g., vouchers, benefits, etc.).
• Rental History or Criminal Record Disclaimers
Avoid statements like “No Prior Evictions” or “No Felons.” These are now viewed as discriminatory and are explicitly prohibited.
• Screening Standards (Before Application)
Landlords are not allowed to share their screening criteria before a rental application is submitted. Even if a prospective tenant asks, you’re required to hold off on revealing that information.
What You Can Say in a Rental Ad
So what can you include in your rental listings? Stick to describing the property itself:
- Number of bedrooms and bathrooms
- Square footage
- Monthly rent and deposit amount
- Whether pets are allowed
- Amenities (washer/dryer, parking, outdoor space, etc.)
- Neighborhood or nearby landmarks
- Lease terms (length, renewal options, etc.)
By focusing solely on the unit and not the tenant, you reduce your risk and ensure you’re operating within the law.
Why Compliance Matters
Violating Ordinance 231019 could result in financial penalties, damaged reputation, or even legal consequences. Beyond that, it sends the wrong message to prospective renters who are protected under fair housing laws.
As a landlord, you have every right to screen applicants—but only after they apply. This creates a fairer process and ensures your property is accessible to all qualified renters.
Need Help Navigating the Changes?
If you’re unsure how to adjust your listings or want to make sure you’re compliant, Alpine Property Management Kansas City can help. We stay up to date on all local ordinances and handle advertising, tenant screening, leasing, and compliance—so you don’t have to worry.
Reach out today and let our team make property management stress-free, legal, and profitable.
Contact Alpine Property Management Kansas City Contact Us:
Or give is a call at: 816-343-4520