Property Owner Ordered to Repay City Costs for Tenant Relocation Assistance

Nearly one year after nine households were displaced from a Romar Court apartment building, the property owner has been ordered by a neutral hearing officer to reimburse the City of Novato $89,707 for tenant relocation assistance, City staff and legal costs, and penalties. The decision may be appealed in court.

In April 2025, the City red-tagged a 14-unit apartment building on Romar Court after determining it was unsafe for occupancy due to serious structural and fire safety hazards. The action came after more than a year of unsuccessful efforts by the City to work with the property owner to address ongoing health and safety violations.

To ensure displaced residents received timely assistance, the City partnered with local organizations to help with relocation and support services. Because the property owner failed to provide the required assistance under California law, the City provided each household with $7,236 in relocation assistance, equal to two months market-rate rent, and including support for utility deposits.

The City recognizes the support provided by Community Action Marin, Legal Aid of Marin, North Marin Community Services, and the Novato Unified School District. Their coordinated efforts helped displaced residents access housing resources, legal assistance, and other support services during a challenging time.

The City remains committed to protecting tenants, supporting housing stability and enforcing health and safety standards throughout Novato. On April 28, 2026 the City Council adopted a Tenant Protections Ordinance providing protections for renters who must move through no fault of their own while maintaining key rights for property owners.

Additional information about the City's ordinance: novato.gov/TenantProtections