HF 2668 Summary

• Landlords must provide written receipts for cash rent payments immediately upon receipt if made in person, or within three business days if payment is not made in person.

• Tenants are entitled to recover attorney fees in the same manner and extent as specified in residential leases for landlords, effective for leases entered into on or after August 1, 2011.

• Landlords cannot charge late fees exceeding 8% of overdue rent without written tenant agreement specifying when late fees will be imposed, effective January 1, 2011.

• Applicant screening fees are restricted; landlords cannot charge fees when no unit is available, must return fees if applicant is rejected for unlisted reasons, and are liable for violations including fees plus civil penalties up to $100 and attorney fees.

• Eviction procedures for foreclosed properties are modified to require at least 90 days' written notice to tenants on foreclosed properties with leases beginning before foreclosure, with longer protections if lease terms extend beyond 90 days, for actions commenced through December 31, 2012.