Moving to a new city can be both thrilling and daunting, particularly when it comes to comprehending the local laws and regulations. This article will focus on the relocation law in Portland, Oregon, providing a helpful guide to facilitate your transition. Whether you are a tenant or a landlord, it is essential to know your rights and obligations under the relocation law to ensure a seamless and stress-free move. Let's take a closer look at the critical elements of Portland's relocation law.

What is the Relocation Law?

1. The relocation law in Portland, also known as the Portland Renter Relocation Assistance Ordinance, was established to protect tenants from involuntary displacement due to certain circumstances, such as rent increases or no-cause evictions. The law aims to provide financial assistance to qualifying tenants who are forced to move as a result of these circumstances.

Applicability and Eligibility:

The relocation law applies to residential rental units within the city of Portland. To be eligible for relocation assistance, tenants must meet specific criteria, including:
A. The tenant's unit must be within the city limits of Portland.

B. The tenant must have occupied the rental unit for at least one year.

C.  The tenant's relocation must be due to a no-cause eviction or certain substantial rent increases.

Relocation Assistance Amount:

2. If a tenant meets the eligibility requirements, the landlord must pay relocation assistance. As of the date of this blog post, the relocation assistance amount for a property with 3+ bedrooms is set at $4,500 per household. The funds are intended to help cover the costs associated with moving, such as security deposits, moving services, and the increased rent at the new residence.

Exceptions and Exemptions:

3. While the relocation law covers a broad range of situations, there are certain exceptions and exemptions to consider. These may include instances where a landlord intends to move into the rental unit or substantially rehabilitate the property. It's important to familiarize yourself with these exceptions to understand if they apply to your situation. To learn more about these exemptions check out how to apply for exemption here.

Tenant Rights and Responsibilities:

4. Under the relocation law, tenants have certain rights, such as receiving proper notice from the landlord regarding rent increases or no-cause evictions. Tenants are also responsible for notifying the landlord in writing if they believe they qualify for relocation assistance. Tenants need to understand their rights and fulfill their responsibilities to ensure a smooth process.

Landlord Obligations:

5. Landlords must comply with the relocation law and provide the necessary relocation assistance if the tenant meets the eligibility criteria. They must also provide a 90-day notice to the tenant in case of rent increases or no-cause evictions. Landlords must understand their obligations and fulfill them to avoid legal issues.

Relocating can be a stressful experience, but understanding the relocation law in Portland, Oregon, can help alleviate some of the burdens. Whether you're a tenant or a landlord, being aware of your rights, obligations, and eligibility criteria for relocation assistance is crucial. Following the guidelines outlined in this blog post, you can ensure a smoother transition and make the most of your relocation experience in Portland.

Disclaimer: This blog post provides an overview of the relocation law in Portland, Oregon, as of the date of writing. It is essential to consult the relevant city ordinances, legal professionals, or official sources for the most up-to-date and accurate information.