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Small landlords say Green Rental Housing process is burdensome; commission to hear OSI briefing
Summary
A commissioner reported green rental compliance is demanding extensive photo documentation and energy audits for small properties, raising costs and tenant privacy concerns; commissioners will invite the city's Office of Sustainability and Innovations (OSI) to explain and explore streamlining.
Commissioner Jordan raised concerns about the administrative burden the city's Green Rental Housing process is imposing on small landlords. Jordan said a four-unit building required dozens of interior photos, a home energy audit and multiple uploads — work Jordan estimated could consume several days for a small owner.
Jordan said the required photo documentation and virtual inspections feel invasive for tenants and time-consuming for landlords. "We're paying city staff to then just look at photo after photo," Jordan said, and noted that extra city follow-up has sometimes required occupied-unit visits to re-photograph items not accepted in the upload process.
Commissioners discussed possible remedies including an in-person inspection option, a streamlined checklist for small landlords, clearer guidance from OSI about required materials, and timelines so owners and tenants can prepare. Staff said OSI will attend the next commission meeting to provide an update and respond to questions about process, energy-audit requirements and possible modifications.
The commission encouraged members to share landlord feedback ahead of OSI's visit so the city can discuss options to reduce cost, staff time and tenant privacy concerns.
