Explainer Why Philadelphias housing policies may be making renters sick

Philadelphia's City Council is advancing the Safe Healthy Homes Act, which includes a fund to assist tenants whose buildings face condemnation, signed into law despite funding uncertainties. However, two other key bills aimed at strengthening tenant rights and enhancing proactive inspections have stalled. Researchers warn that the fate of the Right to Repairs legislation could significantly impact tenant health and safety in the city. Under Pennsylvania law, landlords must provide habitable rental properties, but enforcement largely falls on tenants. Many renters face eviction risks when they assert their rights, particularly in a city grappling with a shortage of affordable housing.

In 2018, over 2,000 eviction cases were filed against tenants who raised habitability issues, despite these retaliatory actions being illegal. The current system demands that tenants document violations and navigate legal challenges without guaranteed representation. This leaves many vulnerable to unsafe living conditions and potential eviction.