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Question: Can you ask for social security numbers (SSN) on an application?  My attorney says you cannot ask for SSN in Portland.  Is this correct?  Can I ask for SSN for properties outside of Portland?    

Oregon Manufactured Home Community: Bankruptcy & Eviction This is a nuanced area where federal bankruptcy law intersects with Oregon landlord-tenant law. Here's an overview — but please consult a licensed Oregon attorney for advice specific to your situation, as this is complex legal territory. The Automatic Stay (Federal Bankruptcy…

  There were 32,321 fair housing complaints filed nationwide in 2024, one of the highest totals in more than two decades, according to the 2025 Fair Housing Trends Report recently released by the National Fair Housing Alliance. As usual, disability-related discrimination accounted for the largest share of complaints at 54.6 percent, followed by…

Question:  :  I am the Regional Manager for an Oregon park management company.  I was reviewing the Legislation email [SB 1523 and HB 4123] and needed some further clarification on what we can technically charge back to our residents.  We have just introduced a resident portal and are now mailing out monthly rent statements. Are we able to charge…

  Oregon Senate Bill 1523   Purpose of Bill. Addresses electronic access to residential tenancies and provides access alternatives for tenant applicants who are unable or unwilling to use digital portals for residential housing services. It will become law on June 5, 2026.  

A convenient parking spot is a prized amenity at many rental properties. You and your staff may routinely field requests like, How can I get a spot closer to the building entrance or the entrance to my space? Don’t assume the person asking is just looking for a special favor. If an applicant or tenant has a mobility-related disability, they may…

In Oregon MHCs, non-payment of utilities is not grounds for a "nonpayment of rent" eviction. Instead, it is treated as a violation of the rental agreement, which allows for a "for-cause" termination.   

  Question. The City of Harrisburg is ending its franchise with Republic Services and will instead be contracting with the City of Junction City for garbage collection. While this change will not be implemented for a few years, we are trying to be proactive and look at all our options.  We currently have a 20-yard compactor and ten co-mingle…

  Issue: Time constraints may lead to insufficient documentation of interactions with prospects and residents, increasing the risk of discrimination claims. Establishing clear standard procedures that incorporate documentation requirements can help staff consistently avoid this issue.

  Caveat: The following answers are based upon my legal alchemy brewed from experience, my understanding of Oregon statutory and case law, and practical considerations balancing the costs of litigation vs. the benefits of a reasonable solution. Members should consult with their own alchemists.   Be sure to review MHCO’s recent legal article on…