A new law is being discussed to assist renters displaced by conversions.  The present law requires developers to give renters 90 days’ notice and in some cases, $500 relocation assistance. The new law could require developers to pay tenants up to three months rent, provide longer notice, and ban construction work during the notice period.

Also being discussed is the government capping the number of allowed conversions.  Overall, it seems like this discussion is solving a problem that has already runs its course.  Nevertheless, giving people long notice, helping them relocate, and making sure they don’t disrupt renters while they’re there sounds reasonable.  Capping the number of conversions seems a bit over the top in my opinion.

Read more on the Seattle Times.

Wendy