Landlords in Yonkers could soon face stiffer penalties if they neglect the properties they own.

Yonkers city leaders announced they are amending the Housing and Building Maintenance Code. The legislation would apply to buildings with two or more apartments.

The Landlord Identification Legislation requires landlords to register once a year with the Housing and Building Department. If the landlord doesn't live within 20 miles of their property, he or she must designate a live agent who does live within that distance.

Owners must certify their units have been inspected once a year and buildings with five or more health or safety violations in a year will be designated as a chronic violator. The owner could face a fine of up to $1,000 a day.

If passed, the law is expected to go into effect in September.