Columbus committee advances 90‑day rent‑increase notification and tenant right of first refusal plan

Council members described draft tenant‑protection measures that would change how tenants are notified of rent increases and provide a right of first refusal at renewal.

Under the current proposal presented to committee, landlords would need to provide at least 90 days’ written notice to tenants when a renewal will increase monthly rent by more than 3 percent. The legislation would not apply to voucher‑subsidized units, where federal rules govern notice. The measure also would create a right of first refusal for existing tenants: landlords must offer the existing tenant an opportunity to renew 90 to 60 days prior to expiration of the existing rental agreement, subject to four exceptions (tenant voluntarily gave 60 days’ notice to vacate, tenancy is moving to month‑to‑month, parties agreed to a new agreement more than 90 days before expiration, or tenant fails to comply with local or state laws).

The city framed the change as an effort to reduce abrupt displacement and give tenants additional time to secure housing or resources when landlords plan material rent increases. The draft carries criminal penalties for violations: a first‑degree misdemeanor and fines up to $1,000 for landlords who operate under certain business structures; the committee discussed the enforceability and litigation risk of criminalizing notice violations.

Representatives from the Columbus Apartment Association and industry attorneys warned that criminal penalties could produce litigation, encourage month‑to‑month tenancies, and raise costs that ultimately affect rents. Council members said they sought a middle ground that protects tenants while engaging landlords before legislation advances.

What’s next: Committee members said they will continue stakeholder engagement with landlords, tenant advocates and legal advisers and return with refined legislation.