Albuquerque, NM (KKOB) – A new city ordinance which will address unsafe and dangerous living conditions for renters has been signed by Mayor Tim Keller. The new ordinance increases the accountability for landlords especially those that repeatedly violate housing codes. The violations include lack of heat, cooling, running water and safe exits. Property owners have 72 hours to fix serious violations or submit a city-approved plan outlining how and when repairs will be completed. Landlords, and apartment complex management who don’t fix the issues within the timeframe face fines of $500 per day.
The new rules also require landlords to pay for temporary housing if repairs lasting longer than seven days make a rental unit unsafe to occupy.
Should an owner fail to arrange relocation, the city can move affected tenants and recover those costs through legal means, including property liens.
City officials said enforcement efforts will prioritize life-safety complaints. Residents experiencing unsafe housing conditions are encouraged to document issues, notify their landlord and contact 311 if problems remain unresolved.
