The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has been at the forefront of the fight against COVID-19 since the beginning of the pandemic. In an effort to help prevent the spread of the virus, the CDC issued a temporary eviction moratorium in September 2020. This moratorium has been extended several times and is currently set to expire on June 30, 2021. In addition to the eviction moratorium, the CDC has also provided guidance on how to create a safe and healthy living environment in rental properties.
One of the key components of creating a safe and healthy living environment is having a strong rental contract. A rental contract is a legally binding agreement between the landlord and tenant that outlines the terms and conditions of the rental agreement. The rental agreement should include details such as the amount of rent, payment due dates, late fees, security deposit, and maintenance responsibilities.
In addition to these standard rental contract items, the CDC also recommends that rental contracts include language that promotes a safe and healthy living environment. This includes requiring landlords to maintain the property in a safe and sanitary condition, providing tenants with access to running water and proper sanitation facilities, and ensuring that any repairs are made in a timely manner.
The CDC also recommends that rental contracts include provisions for addressing COVID-19 related issues. For example, the rental contract could require the landlord to provide cleaning and disinfecting supplies, require tenants to wear masks and practice social distancing, and require tenants to notify the landlord if they are experiencing COVID-19 symptoms.
It is important for landlords and tenants to work together to create a rental contract that promotes safety and health. Landlords should be transparent about their cleaning and disinfecting protocols, and tenants should be encouraged to report any concerns they have about the property. By working together, landlords and tenants can create a safe and healthy living environment that helps prevent the spread of COVID-19.
In summary, the CDC has provided guidance on how to create a safe and healthy living environment in rental properties. This includes having a strong rental contract that promotes safety and health and addresses COVID-19 related issues. Landlords and tenants should work together to create a rental agreement that promotes a safe and healthy living environment. By doing so, we can all do our part to prevent the spread of COVID-19 and keep our communities safe.
