Community Members Urge City to Educate Tenants and Enforce Licensing Requirements

The Housing Advisory Commission meeting on September 3, 2025, highlighted significant concerns regarding tenant and landlord education and registration in Albany, California. Community members expressed frustration over the lack of outreach to ensure that all landlords are properly licensed and that tenants understand their rights and responsibilities.

One speaker emphasized the need for a city pamphlet to guide new license holders on their obligations, suggesting that education should extend to tenants as well. They argued that while landlords must adhere to regulations, tenants should also be informed about their responsibilities, such as waste management. The speaker proposed that if tenants fail to meet their obligations, it may be appropriate to limit their rights, particularly concerning rent control measures.

Another participant raised concerns about the estimated 25% of property owners in Albany who are unlicensed. They pointed out that compliant landlords are unfairly burdened by regulations while unregistered landlords continue to operate without oversight. This disparity raises questions about the effectiveness of current enforcement measures and the need for improved registration processes.

The discussions underscored the importance of a balanced approach to housing regulations, where both landlords and tenants are held accountable. The commission is expected to consider these points as they work towards enhancing housing policies in Albany.