Alex Williamson
Alex Williamson is a Brooklyn-based reporter covering housing, health, and inequality.
Security Deposits Are a Barrier to Affordable Housing. What Can Be Done?
There are many new approaches to the security deposit problem—some have been lauded by affordable housing advocates, and others have been met with skepticism and mistrust—often with good reason. Here’s a look at a few commercial, charitable, and legislative solutions being explored.
Tenant Advocates Win as Security Deposit Bill Is Vetoed in Baltimore
Baltimore's mayor vetoed a “Renter’s Choice” law after housing advocates warned of the predatory potential of selling deposit alternatives to struggling tenants.
Health Care Institutions Invest in Tenant Protections for Community Health
Health care institutions are expanding from funding development to supporting housing justice and tenant rights policy.
Security Deposit Alternatives: The Misleading Marketing of ‘Renter’s Choice’
Dozens of cities and states are considering legislation allowing alternatives to upfront security deposits, such as "security deposit insurance." The only problem? It's not actually insurance.