Construction Prohibited that Results in No Water/Utility or Excessive Noise

Emergency ordinance will prohibit construction activities that suspend water or electricity service in buildings with residential rental units exceeding two hours in a single day unless an alternative source is provided. In the event of a water shutoff, an alternative source could include, but not be limited to, water bottles or other containers of water. In the event of an electricity shutoff, a generator or alternative power source that allows internet use must be provided.

Notice

Advance notice to tenants of a disruption in service or loud noise levels over specified limits is required and the name and contact information of a person who can respond to tenant concerns must be provided. In the event of an anticipated water or electricity shutoff lasting more than two consecutive hours or four non-consecutive hours in a single day, all impacted residents must be provided with 72 hours advance written notice. In the event of an anticipated water or electricity shutoff of more than two consecutive hours or four non-consecutive hours on two or more consecutive days, or on more than three days in a single week, all impacted residents must be provided with written notice at least one week in advance of the first shutoff, and with weekly updates for prolonged construction projects. The Department of Building Inspection may authorize the construction to continue without the advance notice if a pause in construction would create an imminent safety hazard.

Noise

In the event of any anticipated use of loud instruments for a continuous or long period of time, the property owner shall install temporary insulation to mitigate the resulting noise and disruption to impacted residential tenants.

Exemption

Property owners are exempt from the requirements of the ordinance if the owner and all impacted residential tenants agree to different terms. Also exempt are buildings with 100% affordable units.

Effective Date

(a) Consistent with Charter Section 2.107, this emergency ordinance shall become effective immediately upon enactment. Enactment occurs when the Mayor signs the ordinance, the Mayor returns the ordinance unsigned or does not sign the ordinance within ten days of receiving it, or the Board of Supervisors overrides the Mayor’s veto of the ordinance.

(b) The Board of Supervisors intends that this emergency ordinance become effective on July 14, 2020, the date of introduction, and urges that the Department of Building Inspection to exercise administrative discretion to implement its provisions prior to effective date described in subsection (a).

(c) This emergency ordinance shall expire on the 61st day following enactment unless reenacted as provided by Section 2.107.