Bellingham seeks input on renter experience as council mulls passing ordinances

In a proactive move to enhance the renter experience, the City of Bellingham is inviting residents to share their insights on proposed rental ordinances aimed at curbing excessive fees. The city council is reviewing two significant ordinances that seek to address what are commonly referred to as "junk fees" in rental agreements. The first ordinance requires landlords and property managers to maintain transparency regarding any fees charged beyond the monthly rent, while the second ordinance extends similar regulations to manufactured and mobile home rentals. A noteworthy aspect of the proposals is the refunding of application fees for individuals not accepted for tenancy, promoting fairness in the rental process. Additionally, landlords would be restricted from charging more than 2% for late rent, or 1% in the case of mobile homes, which could alleviate financial strain for renters.

Other hidden fees, such as those for using in-unit appliances, would be explicitly banned, further protecting tenants from unexpected costs. Renters are encouraged to participate by completing a survey available until February 14, allowing their experiences to shape the future of rental regulations in Bellingham. This initiative underscores the city's commitment to fostering a fair and transparent rental market.