ECHO Housing implements Albany's rent review program with education and mediation services

The Housing Advisory Commission meeting held on June 4, 2025, in Albany, California, focused on the ongoing collaboration with Echo Housing, an organization selected by the city to assist tenants. The meeting outlined the services provided by Echo Housing, which include education, conciliation, and mediation for renters in Albany.

The program aims to educate tenants about their rights, particularly concerning rent increases. Echo Housing receives inquiries from residents regarding potential rent hikes, assessing whether these increases comply with state law. If a rent increase exceeds 5% within a year, tenants are informed about the rent review program, which is designed to address their concerns.

Conciliation and mediation are key components of the program. Echo Housing facilitates communication between tenants and property owners, typically through Zoom or phone calls, to find a mutually agreeable solution. If conciliation is successful, an agreement is documented and shared with both parties. However, it is crucial to note that while participation in the process is mandatory for both sides, the outcome of mediation is not binding. Property owners retain the right to proceed with rent increases even if an agreement is not reached.

The meeting emphasized the importance of tenant participation in the process. If a property owner fails to engage, Echo Housing will notify the tenant, which can invalidate any eviction actions related to the disputed rent increase. Conversely, if a tenant does not participate, the process concludes without further remedies available to them.

Additionally, landlords in Albany are required to inform tenants about the rent review program when issuing a rent increase notice or during the lease signing. The city provides a multilingual form for landlords to distribute, ensuring accessibility for all residents. It is the tenant's responsibility to initiate the rent review process if they believe a rent increase is unjustified, as the city does not actively monitor compliance.

The meeting concluded with a reaffirmation of the program's goals to support tenants and promote fair housing practices in Albany. Further discussions on the program's effectiveness and potential improvements are anticipated in future meetings.