The Maryland Multi-Housing Association (MMHA) joins the National Apartment Association in urging its members to assist residents impacted by the government shutdown.

The federal government shutdown is now in its fourth week and almost 800,000 employees are currently furloughed or working without pay. During this time, MMHA encourages its members as well as all rental housing providers to work with residents who may have difficulties paying their rent due to the shutdown.

“We believe that as an industry, it is paramount to ensure that residents can stay in their homes during this difficult time,” said Adam Skolnik, executive director, MMHA. “We will guide and work with our members to support those residents who are impacted by the shutdown.”

Potential methods of alleviation include creating payment plans, waiving late fees, accepting partial payments, and not filing failure to pay rent cases. The National Apartment Association has prepared customizable documents for rental property owners to communicate with management staff and residents.

In addition to memorializing all agreements or arrangements with impacted residents in writing, MMHA also recommends that rental property owners request from residents a copy of their furlough letter and a copy of their December pay stubs or Leave & Earning Statements for verification purposes.

For more information on how to navigate rental payment issues during the government shutdown, please visit https://www.mmhaonline.org/.

About the Maryland Multi-Housing Association (MMHA)

The Maryland Multi-Housing Association (MMHA), a professional trade association established in 1996, whose membership consists of owners and managers of more than 195,000 rental housing homes in 867 apartment communities. In addition, MMHA represents almost 250 associate member companies who supply goods and services to the multi-housing industry.