The Impact of COVID-19 on Small Landlords: Survey Evidence from Albany and Rochester, New York
March 11, 2021 by The report focuses on the financial challenges faced by small landlords in Albany and Rochester, New York, during the pandemic. It highlights that rent collection significantly declined in 2020 compared to 2019, with more severe impacts in low-income and minority neighborhoods. Small landlords responded by offering repayment plans and deferring maintenance, but were more likely to evict tenants in disadvantaged areas. The report underscores the disproportionate impact of the pandemic on vulnerable communities and small landlords, who are crucial providers of affordable housing. It also notes that rental payment rates began to recover in more advantaged neighborhoods by October 20203. The findings suggest a need for broad rental assistance to support both landlords and tenants.