HB1486 Summary

• Requires landlords to maintain premises with non-leaking roofs, safe structures, operable locks, running water with adequate hot water, waste disposal systems, approved electrical access, heating sources, and garbage receptacles (if applicable).

• Mandates landlords install functioning smoke alarms at tenant possession and carbon monoxide detectors by July 1, 2016 for units with fossil fuel heating, fireplaces, or attached garages.

• Establishes 14-day repair timeline for landlords after receiving notice (24 hours for emergency conditions), with landlord responsible for selecting repair technicians and completing work in compliance with building codes.

• Grants tenants right to terminate rental agreements if landlord fails to remedy health and safety violations within 14 days of notice, with option to seek injunctive relief if breach not remedied within 30 days and rent payments continue.

• Prohibits landlords from increasing rent, decreasing services, or initiating eviction within 90 days of tenant complaints about code violations or use of remedies under this chapter.