There traditionally has been tension between landlords and owners on one side and tenants on the other. This is true in both the commercial and residential sector.
The basic question is the extent to which the landlord must make improvements that benefit the tenants. Improvements require capital investment which, of course, is a disincentive to the property owner.
The Columbia (MO) Daily Tribune posted a story that looks at it from the residential apartment perspective. In Columbia, officials are thinking about changing energy efficiency standards.
The story says that young renters are complaining that poorly built structures are causing utility bills to in some cases exceed their rents. A landlord cited in the story said that hiking requirements would lead to higher costs, which could increase rents.
It is a hot-button issue. The story says that 80 people spoke during a special rental energy efficiency forum.
