Changes to Rent Ordinance pass 'Supes

From today's BeyondChron,

...from the Board meeting Tuesday afternoon, the residential rent ordinance finally passed, 7-4.

The ordinance clarifies existing law to require a landlord to prove just cause when severing any service included with the rental unit such as a parking space, storage unit, or laundry facilities.

It was felt by many that the ambiguity in the law had allowed landlords in the city to effectively evict unwanted tenants by denying them access to important common area services. The only avenue open to renters was to apply to the rent board for a reduction in rent; for many residents, this action did not overcome their daily inconvenience.

The new legislation will protect tenants’ rights and the services provided with a rental unit. A landlord will have to provide just cause in order to lawfully rescind a service, whether it is the use of a lobby, a parking garage or access to any other common area.

Rent Ordinance Measure Moves Forward at City Hall [SFHomeBlog]