New Rental Laws Coming in 2014
As 2013 nears the end, it’s time to look at what changes are in store for landlords in 2014. Here’s what’s on the radar so far:
California
California landlords are going to see several changes that go into effect this January.
For instance, adjacent property owners will need to share costs of maintaining boundaries and provide notice to one another regarding fences and other upgrades.
California landlords will soon need to post utility rate information for tenants, and also provide more formal disclosures concerning smoking policies.
Carbon Monoxide
California has a number of previously-enacted rental laws relating to carbon monoxide detectors set to take effect in January, 2014.
Currently, multifamily owners must install and maintain carbon monoxide detectors. As of January 1, 2014, owners of single family rental units will also be responsible for testing and maintaining these devices.
Starting January 1, 2014, these requirements have been expanded to require landlords to display the date of manufacture and other information about the device. All battery-operated devices must contain a non-removable, non-replaceable 10-year battery.
All residential properties in California which have pending building permits after January 1st will have to prove that they have installed properly functioning alarms.
For more detailed information about these upcoming California laws, see this blog post provided by landlord attorney Daniel Bornstein.
Pests
Bedbugs continue to be a problem across the country, and New Hampshire landlords will have new rules beginning January 1. Landlords will have seven days to respond to an outbreak, but tenants will also shoulder some responsibility for early notification, and even payment of costs if they cause an infestation.
Tenant Screening
Oregon lawmakers have passed a number of new tenant screening restrictions which are set to go into effect January 1. These rules limit a landlord’s right to reject candidates with prior evictions or “non-housing related” criminal background. The rules also require additional disclosures that must be provided when charging application fees. Landlords in Oregon are also prohibited from turning away applicants because they are on government assistance programs including Section 8.
What’s happening in your region?
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