Landlords, Renters and Neighborhoods

For too long, some absentee landlords have failed to ensure that the tenants they rent to, are good neighbors. Unfortunately, the housing crisis that began years ago, has made these nuisance landlords and renters more common.

This legislation is a new tool, that will be used to encourage landlords to think, not only about their own wallets, but, also consider, the needs and rights of the neighboring community. We want safe and friendly streets throughout our city. This piece of legislation will empower the City to remove a certificate of occupancy from a residence for up to 12 months. That means no renter and no money for the absentee landlord for up to 12 months, if their residence becomes a nuisance to their neighbors.

Those landlords that maintain their properties well and are concerned with the quality of the neighborhood; this legislation will help you. But, to those landlords that do not care about the neighborhood in which they own properties, I say to them, It is time to change your ways! Care about the neighbors and neighborhood that you choose to own rental property. Work to ensure that you rent to only good neighbors and that you maintain your property as befitting a neighborhood you would want to live in yourself.

Do the right thing and “care about the neighborhood”.  If doing the right thing is not motivation enough, then let this legislation serve a convincing incentive.

It is simple; Rent to good neighbors, or lose your privilege to rent in Cleveland Heights.