Nuisance Abatement: Policy Issue

Overview

Thousands of local governments across the United States have implemented laws intended to curtail problematic properties. Nuisance abatement laws levy penalties on housing providers when their properties require a significant amount of police or other emergency services. In a similar fashion, crime-free housing laws hold apartment owners responsible for the behavior of their residents.

NAA Position

Nuisance abatement ordinances create significant burdens for property owners and punish residents for repeated calls for emergency services. NAA advises policymakers to evaluate other methods for reducing crime that do not penalize housing providers for the behavior of their residents. 

As an Owner or Operator, How Does this Affect My Business?

Penalties imposed on a property owner or operator who does not remedy violations may include significant fines, forfeiture of business or rental licenses, or mandate the closure of the property. These punishments are used by the municipality to compel compliance from the apartment owner or operator.

Contact Information

To learn more about this issue, please contact NAA's Government Affairs team.