• rockSlayer@lemmy.world
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      1 year ago

      That’s correct, but it’s not just “stop paying rent”, as that’s illegal. In general, a tenant union would either facilitate or assist with helping the tenants set up a rent escrow to be released when the problem is solved and the rent strike ends

      • Aux@lemmy.world
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        1 year ago

        Escrow or not, if the landlord doesn’t get his monies, you go living under the bridge. Problem solved.

        • rockSlayer@lemmy.world
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          1 year ago

          Actually no, tenants have a right to a livable space. This includes but is not limited to running water, electricity, heating, and functional appliances. Say for example that there’s a bug problem in a building. There’s a legal process so tenants can place rent in escrow and get relocated at the cost of the landlord until the problem is solved. A tenant union assists with that process. Tenant unions often also negotiate the price of rent, to keep it affordable. To me, this sentiment is the same as “you’ll be fired for union organizing”. The chance is there, but fearmongering doesn’t help.

          • Aux@lemmy.world
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            1 year ago

            Well, that’s not how it works in the UK. Once you withhold any monies, you lose all your rights and protections.

        • winterayars
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          1 year ago

          Even in the most dystopian places of the US that’s not how it works.