Navigating Changes
Who knew that when we raised our glasses of champagne at midnight on January 1st, 2020, that this year, the first year of the new decade, would bring with it a pandemic that has affected everyone on nearly every level. From local shop owners to big corporations, we’ve all had to adjust how we go about our daily lives.
Homeowners who rent out one or more properties across Oregon have surely felt the stress as the landlord-tenant laws continue to evolve in response to COVID-19. It seems that every month there is a new law to review and follow. Well that’s where we come in. As property managers, we ensure that we’re up to date on the latest, revolving laws, allowing homeowners a peace of mind that their property is in good hands during this confusing time. Below are some of the latest laws enacted since the virus hit Oregon in March that we continue to navigate with transparency, grace and innovation.
- Executive order 20-56 extends the eviction moratorium from September 30, 2020 until December 31, 2020. It prohibits landlords from issuing termination notices due to nonpayment and most terminations without cause until December 31, 2020. This order was signed on September 28, 2020.
- Tenants outside of Multnomah County will have until March 31st, 2021, to repay any rents or other charges accrued from April 1 – September 30, 2020; tenants within Multnomah County have until July 9th.
- House Bill 4213 4213 allows tenants until April 1, 2021, to pay back any rent or other moneys that were not paid between April 1, 2020, and September 30, 2020. Landlords cannot serve a notice of termination or evict a tenant for nonpayment of rent that came due between April and September until after March 31, 2021.
- The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) order that if a tenant files a declaration saying they are unable to pay their rent; they make less than $99,000 per year; they are trying to pay as much as they can; and they are trying obtain all available government assistance, then a landlord cannot terminate their tenancy except for cause until after Dec. 31, 2020.
- Termination for nonpayment balance begins on April 1st, 2021. In Multnomah County, landlords can begin termination for nonpayment balance starting July 10th.
- Termination for nonpayment for current month’s rent and beyond begins on January 1st for Oregon and February 1st for Multnomah County.
- Landlords can begin charging late fees for current month’s rent and beyond in Oregon starting January 1st, and February 1st in Multnomah County.
- Nonpayment balances can be reported to credit agencies starting April 1st, 2021, and July 10th, 2021 in Multnomah County.
While we have seen a lot of change this year, know that it doesn’t have to be complicated. Our job is to protect your liability while preserving your equity and growing your value. Leave the law-memorizing to us while you spend time enjoying the life you’ve earned. You’re in good hands.
