HB 524 Summary

• Prohibits landlords from recovering possession of dwelling units if the landlord's failure to maintain habitability significantly impairs the premises, with the exception that tenants must continue paying rent equal to fair rental value or agreed rent (whichever is less).

• Limits tenant rent liability to fair rental value of the premises from the date habitability becomes significantly impaired.

• Restores landlord's ability to recover possession upon either termination of the rental agreement or restoration of the premises to habitable condition, whichever occurs first.

• Establishes minimum damages of two months' rent plus attorney's fees for tenants unlawfully evicted in violation of retaliation protections under section 521-74.

• Effective July 1, 2023.