26-295 : Halton-Pope, Bollman – Improving Property Manager Licensing Transparency and Defining Duties

This ordinance amendment, introduced by Councilmembers Halton-Pope and Bollman, aims to improve transparency and define the duties of property managers overseeing three or more residential rental units in the City of Buffalo.

Key Changes and Requirements:

• Definitions Updated: Clarifies definitions for "Dwelling Unit," "Property Management," and "Property Manager." A property manager is defined as an individual or entity managing three or more residential rental units for a fee or salary, residing or based in Erie County. Owner-occupied units are excluded from the count for determining property manager status.
• Property Manager Duties Defined: Establishes specific duties including:
  • Ensuring compliance with housing, building, fire, and health laws.
  • Being reachable and responding to the City and tenants within a reasonable time.
  • Resolving tenant complaints and addressing underlying conditions.
  • Maintaining accurate registration and contact information.
  • Collecting rent and security deposits per law and lease terms.
• Application Requirements: Applicants must provide names, addresses, property descriptions (including owner and unit count), proof of insurance (if required), a copy of their NYS real estate broker's license (if collecting rent or negotiating rentals), and contact information for employees performing management duties.
• License Conditions: Requires a NYS real estate broker's license for those collecting rent or negotiating rentals. Newly licensed property managers must provide contact information to all tenants within 30 days. Additional properties acquired must be reported within 45 days. A visible sign identifying the property manager must be posted on each managed property.
• Enforcement: The Common Council can review and potentially revoke a property manager's license for violations of the chapter or other City Codes. The City may impose additional license conditions.
• Effective Date: The ordinance amendment will take effect once duly ratified per City Charter § 3-19.