San Francisco Supervisor Bilal Mahmood announced plans Thursday to introduce legislation that would require landlords to disclose the full monthly cost of renting a unit in advertisements and lease agreements.
The proposed “No Hidden Rent Act” would require rental listings to prominently display a “Total Estimated Cost” alongside the base rent and itemize recurring charges such as amenity, pest control, and other monthly fees, a press release issued Thursday noted.
Additionally, lease agreements would be required to disclose the total estimated monthly cost on the first page.
The proposal would also require upfront disclosure of application and screening fees, prohibiting evictions based on undisclosed charges, city officials said.
Moreover, the proposal will allow tenants to terminate leases without penalty if landlords fail to comply with disclosure requirements, according to city officials.
“San Franciscans deserve to know the real cost of housing before they sign a lease,” said Supervisor Bilal Mahmood. “Right now, too many renters are being hit with hidden fees buried in fine print or revealed only after they’ve committed to a home.”
The legislation is being developed in consultation with the City Attorney’s Office, the Rent Board, and tenant advocacy groups.
Details on when the measure will be formally introduced and considered by a committee are expected in the coming weeks.