RENT IS TOO DAM HIGH!!!
MAKE RENT AFFORDABLE PERIOD!!!
We’re seeing rent stabilization passed in counties across Maryland, and the people of Baltimore are ready to join the fight! BRU has begun planning a rent stabilization campaign and we’re inviting all the tenants in Baltimore City to join us!
Whether homeowner or renter - across race, class, and zip code - all of us deserve the chance to put down roots in our communities. Predatory rent spikes are on the rise and there needs to be something done about this. Rent stabilization is a policy that protects tenants from unreasonable rent spikes.
What is Rent Stabilization?
Rent Stabilization is a policy that prevents landlords from spiking rents over a chosen percentage each year or lease renewal. It keeps rent affordable and predictable for tenants from year to year. For example - a 3% rent stabilization policy means that your landlord can only raise your rent by 3% of the current amount each year - so if you pay $1000/month in 2025, you rent can only be raised to $1030/month in 2026, maximum.
How Do We Get It?
We can come together! As renters, we can fight back against exploitative landlords by organizing together. Rent stabilization will require broad support across the city - it's time to get to know each other as neighbors.
Myth: Market rate (uncontrolled) rent "trickles down" and benefits low-income tenants
Reality: Market rate housing does not provide long-term stability or alleviate the displacement of current residents. The number of low-cost rental units in the United States is rapidly plummeting, while major cities are pricing out low-income communities. It is next to impossible to build new housing fast enough to provide enough market rate unites to prevent the rent gouging tenants are facing.
Myth: Affordable housing programs are better than rent stabilization because they target low-income tenants
Reality: There is not adequate funding for subsidized housing. The wait lists are astronomical. Rent stabilization lowers rent overall, complementing rental assistance programs better than the private market. Stabilization reaches immigrants who don't otherwise qualify for benefits, and primarily benefits low-income tenants of color.
Myth: Rent stabilization results in lower maintenance and poor housing conditions.
Reality: As it is, greedy corporate landlords are not passing on their excessive profits to invest in maintenance tenants sorely need. Data shows that housing conditions improve after passing rent control or rent stabilization. Tenants feel more comfortable with insisting on repairs without fearing retaliation.
How Can I Get Involved?
We believe a limit on annual rent increases should be codified in Baltimore City as a permanent law. Click the link below to view sign on expressing your support for the campaign in addition to filling out brief survey to hear your feedback. If you sign on as an organization your logo will be added to show solidarity and support.
Rent Stabilization: Myths & Facts
We support stable rents and stable communities!
