Mediation can be requested by either the tenant or the landlord, but participation by the parties is voluntary. One of the advantages of mediation is that the proceedings only need to include the parties involved in a dispute and the mediator. There is no waiting period. Mediation is scheduled at the convenience of the tenant and landlord, including evenings and weekends. Mediation can lead to a more positive relationship between the tenant and landlord.
Mediation can address a wide range of issues.
The tenant and landlord arrive at their own resolution voluntarily rather than having a decision imposed upon them. A mediation agreement that is reached between the tenant and landlord is the result of a voluntary process. The agreement can be written and signed by all the parties at their request. This agreement is not enforced by the City's Rent Stabilization Department. However, since the parties voluntarily participate in mediation and negotiate their own agreement to resolve their disputes, most of the agreements reached between tenants and landlords are followed.