City of Wilmington Launches Rent Escrow Program

WILMINGTON - Mayor John Carney announced on Tuesday that the City of Wilmington's Department of Licenses and Inspections (L&I), in partnership with the First State Community Action Agency (FSCAA), has launched a Rent Escrow Program to protect tenants living in unsafe housing conditions.

Through the new program, eligible renters will be permitted to withhold rent when a landlord fails to provide hot water, heat, or electricity after proper notification.

"The City's Rent Escrow Program intends to support renters and hold landlords accountable to major tenant concerns," said Mayor John Carney. "I'd like to thank Commissioner Pabon and the L&I team, as well as the First State Community Action Agency, for taking on this important program that ensures every Wilmington renter has a safe place to call home."

The Rent Escrow Program was established by Ordinance 25-068, sponsored by Councilwoman Yolanda McCoy.

"The Voluntary Rent Escrow Program gives tenants a fair process when essential repairs are not being made, while giving landlords the opportunity to correct the problem. It is about accountability and making sure Wilmington residents have a safe place to live," said Councilwoman McCoy.

When tenants believe they are experiencing a qualifying life safety concern, they should dial the City's 311 helpline to be connected with the Department of L&I. An inspector will assess the property and whether a qualifying violation exists. A tenant must allow the landlord the required 48 hours to remedy the situation before they qualify to withhold rent. The L&I placard that is provided to the renter will contain the contact information for the FSCAA, who will manage the rent escrow account until the violations are resolved.

"This program provides renters with an additional tool when housing conditions threaten their safety," said L&I Commissioner Gabriel Pabon. "Our inspectors will continue working closely with tenants and property owners to ensure violations are identified, addressed, and resolved while helping renters understand the resources available to them.

"Every family deserves a safe and stable place to call home, with basic necessities like heat, water, and electricity. First State is proud to partner with the City of Wilmington to ensure tenants are not left to navigate difficult housing conditions alone," said Bernice M. Edwards, Executive Director of FSCAA. "By providing trusted housing counseling, financial education, and ongoing case support, we can help families understand the rent escrow process, protect their financial stability, and remain safely housed while needed repairs are addressed."

The Rent Escrow Program is now available to residents. Renters can visit the Rent Escrow webpage to learn more.