The Fair Housing Practices Amendment Act of 2026 amends the Rental Housing Act of 1985 to enhance tenant protections regarding utility charges and notification of unpaid amounts. The bill prohibits housing providers from separately charging tenants for utility costs associated with common spaces or vacant units, effective January 1, 2027. Additionally, it mandates that housing providers notify tenants of any unpaid amounts within 45 days after they vacate a rental unit and requires documentation proving that the tenant received this notification at least 60 days before the debt is sent to a collector.

Furthermore, the bill clarifies that housing providers cannot charge tenants for services that fall under the implied warranty of habitability, which includes essential maintenance and utilities. It establishes a process for tenants to dispute alleged unpaid amounts, requiring housing providers to respond to disputes within 10 days. The legislation aims to ensure transparency and fairness in rental agreements, protecting tenants from unexpected charges and enhancing their rights in the rental process.