Tampa City Council has approved legislation designed to help renters who are facing a big rent increase. Under the ordinance, landlords now have to give a 60-day notice on an annual lease, and 30 days on a monthly lease. "It does apply to existing leases that are in effect now, " said Assistant city attorney Rebecca Johns. "They will have to give you 60 days notice to raise the rent at the end of the term."
Tampa Tenants Union calls it a step in the right direction. A spokesman said this will allow people time to find a new place if need be.
But not everyone is happy. Eric Garduno with the Bay Area Apartment Association said his group was hoping for a specific change before the measure was approved. "If you extend (a 30-day notice) that means you're making month-long leases two-month leases," Garduno said.
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