CAA-sponsored legislation to help both landlords and renters endure the financial difficulties brought on by COVID-19 is now in print.
Under SB 1410, the COVID-19 Emergency Rental Assistance Program, the state of California would make direct rental payments to help tenants who cannot afford to pay their rent. SB 1410 would cover at least 80% of unpaid rent attributable to the pandemic.
Eligible renters for the temporary COVID-19 Emergency Rental Assistance Program would include those who can demonstrate, as determined by the Department of Housing and Community Development, an inability to pay rent due to COVID-19 or a government response to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Rental housing providers can participate in the program on a voluntary basis. Qualifying landlords would receive at least 80% of the monthly rent the tenant owes for up to seven months provided that they agree to do the following:
- Not increase rent for the unit for a specified period.
- Not charge late fees for the past due rent paid by the program.
- Not pursue any remaining rent owed for the months paid by the program.
Since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, CAA has urged landlords to act with patience and compassion toward renters unable to cover their rent. The association asks that all rental housing providers abide by CAA’s Safe at Home Guidelines. Also, visit CAA’s COVID-19 resource page for the latest information on navigating the pandemic.