Limits residential rent increases to ten percent (10%) plus the increase in the Consumer Price Index (CPI) annually.
Impact
If enacted, this bill would fundamentally alter the dynamics between landlords and tenants in Rhode Island. It imposes mandatory disclosures regarding additional fees in rental agreements and utility responsibilities, thus aiming for transparency in residential contracts. Moreover, it introduces protections for tenants against undisclosed fees, allowing them to reclaim any fees not disclosed as required. As such, the bill aims to create a more equitable rental market and foster a clearer understanding of the terms and conditions involved in residential tenancies.
Summary
House Bill H5676 seeks to amend the Residential Landlord and Tenant Act to limit rental increases for residential units to a maximum of ten percent (10%) annually, with an additional allowance for increases in the Consumer Price Index (CPI). This proposed legislation is aimed at mitigating housing affordability issues, particularly in regions experiencing rapid rent inflation. By tethering rent increases to the CPI, the bill intends to provide a fair mechanism for both landlords and tenants, ensuring that landlords can cover rising costs while also protecting tenants from exorbitant rent hikes.
Contention
During discussions on H5676, key points of contention have emerged. Proponents argue that the bill addresses the urgent need for housing affordability and a need to counteract the sharp increases in rental costs that can displace low- and middle-income residents. Critics, however, express concerns over potential negative impacts on the rental market, suggesting that limiting rent increases could discourage investment in rental properties or lead to decreased maintenance of existing units. Additionally, there is apprehension among some landlords about the feasibility of complying with these new regulatory requirements and the potential for unanticipated consequences on the overall rental landscape.
Requires landlords to list all mandatory fees when advertising any residential property for rent as well as on the first page of any lease. Prohibits a landlord from charging a convenience fee when the tenant pays rent.
Requires landlords to list all mandatory fees when advertising any residential property for rent in the same section of the agreement as the rent disclosure.
Creates a tenant bill of rights to the right to counsel, the right to habitability, the right to organize free, the right to be free from discrimination, the right to first refusal if the landlord decides to sell the property, and right to renew lease.
Authorizes cities and towns to establish a housing authority to adopt tenant protection measures, including rent control, annual rent increase ordinances and no-fault evictions, subject to certain exemptions.
Requires landlords of residential properties give tenants notice of rent increase at least 90 days prior to increase and requires notice requirement for rent increases for month to month tenants who are over the age of 62 years, to 120 days.