NC S683

Changes county and city inspection departments from mandatory periodic inspections to discretionary inspections, but requires "reasonable cause" before inspecting residential buildings or structures.

Defines "reasonable cause" for residential inspections as: landlord history of more than two verified violations in 12 months, a complaint or inspection request, actual knowledge of unsafe conditions, or visible violations from outside the property.

Allows targeted periodic inspections in designated geographic areas if the county or city provides notice, holds a public hearing, and establishes a plan to assist low-income property owners in meeting housing code standards.

Prohibits counties and cities from requiring rental property permits (except for properties with more than three violations in 12 months or in top 10% crime areas), mandatory enrollment in government programs for certificates of occupancy, or special fees on rental property not also levied on other commercial and residential properties.

Allows continued rental registration fees for jurisdictions charging such fees as of June 1, 2011, capped at $50 annually for 20+ units, $25 for 4-19 units, and $15 for 1-3 units.