A recent article in the Conway Daily Sun discussed the Conway Board of Selectmen's decision to temporarily pause their rental inspection program following ongoing legal disputes. The town had been inspecting rental properties for life safety compliance based on a program approved by voters in April, but the Mt. Washington Valley Association for Responsible Vacation Rentals filed a lawsuit against the town, claiming the inspections were unconstitutional, citing concerns over warrantless searches and overreach of authority.
In response, the selectmen voted to halt inspections and any issuance of Certificates of Compliance until a vote scheduled for April 2025. Property owners who had already paid for inspections will receive a credit for future inspections, and any additional costs will not be charged. The town's legal team and the association reached an agreement to pause the lawsuit while revisions to the town ordinance and inspection program are considered.
The association’s president, David Cavanaugh, argued that the ordinance was flawed and illegal, emphasizing that their lawsuit aimed to protect property rights rather than oppose safety regulations. He suggested the town consider voluntary safety inspections or educational programs instead of mandatory compliance. The association has also requested the town refund fees for inspections deemed unnecessary or based on the flawed program. The article concludes with the association's commitment to monitor the situation and potentially withdraw or reinitiate legal action as needed.
Link to the full story below: