Op-Ed: Renter repairs should be deducted from their rent

Dear Editor, 

I am writing in to voice my support for the renter right to repair ballot initiative dubbed Safe Homes St. Paul. It is a clear and necessary policy that reflects St. Paul’s values by improving living conditions throughout the city.

The Safe Homes St. Paul Ballot Initiative is similar to the renter right to repair law recently passed in Duluth. It allows renters to address basic household repairs after 14 days of inaction by their landlord. The cost of these repairs can then be deducted from tenants’ rent up to $500 or half of one month’s rent.

The initiative’s concept is simple, and there is a self-sorting efficiency to the 14 day waiting period following landlord notification. Responsible landlords will not be affected by the ballot initiative because they are already getting repairs done in a timely manner. Whereas Landlords who are less responsive to their tenants’ needs will have their buildings repaired for them. This law would have a positive impact on all parties involved outside of landlords looking to collect rent on derelict housing.

These repairs are crucial in a city where the median age of residential units is 76 years old.  St. Paul renters need a way to ensure they have simple necessities like hot water, heat, and sanitation when landlords fail to provide the bare minimum. We, as a city, can provide that safety and peace of mind. Safe Homes St. Paul is a commonsense ballot initiative that will improve our city. I encourage your readers to visit www.safehomessaintpaul.org to learn more about this matter. 

Thank you,

Trevor Vernon- St. Paul Resident