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1. What is my responsibility as a seller?

Sellers should make sure that potential buyers are aware of the ordinance either directly or through their broker.

If you are planning on selling a multiple-family rental housing building having five or more dwelling units where at least 20 percent of the units rent for an amount that qualifies as “affordable” in Ramsey County, additional requirements will apply. Please contact the Department of Community Assets and Development for more details.

2. I’m buying a housing building, what is my responsibility?

If the property has three or more rental units, a new owner is required to comply with the requirements of the New Brighton Tenant Notification Ordinance.

New building owners are also responsible for obtaining a new rental license for the property regardless of whether the present owner has a license for the current year.

If you need any help understanding the ordinance or your next steps as a new owner, please contact the Department of Community Assets and Development. City staff wants to ensure all of your questions are answered well in advance of any sale.

3. Can I raise rents, facilitate non-renewals without cause, make a material change to the lease, or re-screen existing residents during the three-month period following the transfer in ownership?

This ordinance does not prohibit a new owner from taking the actions listed above. However, the owner would be required to pay resident relocation benefits if they issue lease non-renewals (without cause or due to re-screening), or take any of these actions during the 90-day tenant notification period and the resident gives the notice to move as a result.

4. Are there any restrictions after the 90-day tenant notification period expires?

If the new owner intends to increase rent, require existing tenants to be rescreened, terminate or not renew housing unit rental agreements, or impose a material change in the terms of the lease within the 30 days immediately following the end of the three-month tenant notification period, the owner must disclose this information to tenants within the required notice. Failure to do so may subject the owner to penalties as outlined in the Ordinance. After that time, the City of New Brighton Tenant Notification Ordinance would no longer apply and owners can manage the property in accordance with their preferred management practices.

5. If a lease expires during the three-month notification period, can I raise the rent?

You can renew the lease, but any rent increases must be effective following the expiration of the 90-day tenant notification period or the owner may be subject to paying relocation benefits.

6. How can I learn more or file a complaint?

If you have any questions related to the implementation of this ordinance or wish to file a complaint, please contact the Department of Community Assets and Development.