New state housing laws are set to roll out across the country in the new year. Whether you're directly affected or just keeping tabs on potential trends, here’s a quick breakdown.
Big changes ahead
California is leading the charge on tenant rights:
- Starting January 1, landlords with 15+ units must offer tenants the option to report rent payments to credit bureaus. The fee is capped at $10 per month, tenants can opt in/out anytime, and you must inform tenants about this option annually and at new lease signings.
- Also starting January 1, application fees can only be charged until or unless they are actually considered. If a fee is charged, you must provide the applicant with a copy of their credit report within seven days and fees must be refunded if applications aren’t reviewed.
- Starting April 1, landlords must take photos of rental units at three key stages: before move-in, after move-out but before repairs, and post-repairs. These photos, along with an itemized list of deductions, must be shared with tenants when returning their deposits.
- Starting July 1, landlords can no longer charge extra for rent paid by check or for serving any kind of termination notices. Additionally, extra security deposits for military members must be refunded after six months of good payment history.
In Florida, multifamily housing providers with five or more units have until January 1 to complete a Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED) assessment. Requirements include security camera systems for all entrances and exits, well-lit parking lots, and 1-inch deadbolts for unit doors.
Property managers must also provide crime deterrence training for staff. New hires must complete training within 60 days of their start date. Complying with this law helps protect property managers from liability if someone is injured on-site.
Bills to watch
In Texas, a recently introduced bill would require housing providers to disclose tenant screening criteria and allow applicants to contest inaccuracies in their histories.
In Ohio, a bill would make tenants responsible for unpaid utility bills. Cities would be allowed to collect debts directly from them instead of landlords.
Stay compliant with tech
Local governments may introduce additional legislation affecting property managers. Keeping up with these changes is important – and technology can help.
Tools like PayProp simplify compliance by helping manage fees, refunds, and tenant communications all from one platform, ensuring you meet legal requirements.
For more complex compliance questions, please consult a local legal expert.
More housing policy headlines
Illinois expands landlord retaliation laws – who's next? – PayProp blog
California voters say no to expanding rent control – Multifamily Dive
After decades of inaction, states are finally stepping up on housing – Vox
