San Francisco Bans Utilities Shutoffs In Single-Meter Buildings Facing Foreclosure Thru 2010

In San Francisco, California, KCBS Radio 740 AM reports:

• The City of San Francisco has taken action to prevent apartment tenants from losing gas, electricity and water service if the landlords don't pay the bills. The declaration, issued by the city attorney and the SF Department of Building Inspection, applies to apartment buildings that face foreclosure. City Attorney Dennis Herrera says there have been cases where the landlord has simply stopped paying the bills leaving the tenants high and dry without heat, lights or water.

• ”Utilities in those buildings will not be allowed to be shut off from now until December 31st, 2010,” said Herrera. This declaration of a health and safety hazard only applies to multiple units where a single meter controls the delivery of utilities.

For the story, see SF Tenants Protected if Landlord Fails to Pay the Bills. SkimmingKappaRent