Requires a housing code enforcement officer to give a copy of any housing code violation notice to all tenants of the building affected by a housing code violation along with any hearing dates scheduled for the violation.
Impact
The implications of HB 5267 extend to enhancing tenant rights within Rhode Island by making the notification process more inclusive. By obligating enforcement officers to notify tenants directly, the bill aims to empower them with information regarding violations that may affect their health and safety. The proposed measure is a part of a broader effort to reinforce accountability among landlords and encourage compliance with housing regulations. As a result, this could lead to a more proactive approach by tenants in addressing issues within their homes.
Summary
House Bill 5267, introduced in January 2025, seeks to amend the Housing Maintenance and Occupancy Code, particularly regarding the notification process for housing code violations. The bill mandates that a housing code enforcement officer must provide all tenants of a affected building with copies of any violation notices issued, along with details of any scheduled hearings related to those violations. This change is designed to improve tenant awareness and involvement in issues that affect their living conditions, ensuring they are informed regarding the state of their residence and any necessary legal processes.
Contention
While proponents of the bill advocate for enhanced tenant rights and transparency, there may be opposition from landlord groups or individuals concerned about the potential administrative burden this mandate places on enforcement officers. Critics might argue that this could inadvertently lead to increased disputes between landlords and tenants, as well as amplify the stress on enforcement agencies that are already managing significant workloads. However, supporters assert that informed tenants are essential for maintaining quality housing standards and navigating compliance effectively.
Requires a housing code enforcement officer to give a copy of any housing code violation notice to all tenants of the building affected by a housing code violation along with any hearing dates scheduled for the violation.
Requires a housing code enforcement officer to give a copy of any housing code violation notice to all tenants of the building affected by a housing code violation along with any hearing dates scheduled for the violation.
Imposes a fine up to $150 a day on a landlord for failure to deliver a copy of a state or local housing code violation to each residential tenant and a notice to prospective tenants of the building affected by said violation within 30 days of its receipt.
Extends the repayment period for toll violations, and requires the RI transit and bridge authority to notify frequent violators by certified mail that their driver's license may be in jeopardy for failure to pay toll violations.
Gives authority to the DLT to enforce violations of the laws relating to corrosion prevention and mitigation work requirements. Also adds civil monetary penalties for violations of those laws.
Gives authority to the DLT to enforce violations of the laws relating to corrosion prevention and mitigation work requirements. Also adds civil monetary penalties for violations of those laws.
Recognizes tenants' unions and provides a procedure whereby the housing resources commission shall administer a hearing process for consolidated complaints filed by tenants' unions, pertaining to the rights and obligations of tenants and landlords.
Recognizes tenants' unions and provides a procedure whereby the housing resources commission shall administer a hearing process for consolidated complaints filed by tenants' unions, pertaining to the rights and obligations of tenants and landlords.
Gives authority to the department of labor and training to enforce violations relating to the performance of glazing work. This act would also add civil monetary penalties for violations of the chapter.
Gives authority to the department of labor and training to enforce violations relating to the performance of glazing work. This act would also add civil monetary penalties for violations of the chapter