Councilman Carlos Clanton Addresses Growing Concern Over “Renovictions” and Housing Stability in Norfolk

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

October 16, 2025

Contact: Office of Councilman Carlos J. Clanton | Carlos.Clanton@Norfolk.gov

Website: www.CouncilmanClanton.com

Norfolk, VA — Councilman Carlos J. Clanton, who serves as Co-Chair of the Mayor’s Commission for Housing, has acknowledged growing concerns from residents across the city regarding the practice of “renovictions”—a term used to describe situations in which tenants are displaced following property renovations or ownership changes that lead to significant rent increases.

“Norfolk is a city built on community, and that means our growth must not come at the expense of the people who make this city home,” said Councilman Clanton. “While property owners have certain rights when improving or renovating their properties, we must ensure that redevelopment is balanced with fairness, transparency, and compassion.”

Councilman Clanton emphasized that the issue has become increasingly common in urban areas experiencing revitalization. Families often face abrupt displacement after receiving short notice of non-renewals or rent hikes following property improvements, creating instability in neighborhoods that have long been home to working families and seniors.

In response, Councilman Clanton has initiated conversations with the City’s Governmental Affairs Director and members of Norfolk’s State Legislative Delegation to explore whether this issue could be addressed in the City’s 2026 Legislative Agenda. The goal would be to assess options for establishing more precise notice requirements and exploring protections that allow residents adequate time to secure new housing without undue hardship.

“This is a complex challenge that requires collaboration between city officials, state lawmakers, property owners, and tenants,” Clanton added. “We can support investment and revitalization while also upholding our commitment to fairness and housing stability for all.”

As Co-Chair of the Mayor’s Commission for Housing, Councilman Clanton noted that the Commission’s ongoing work will include examining this issue further, along with broader discussions around affordability, preservation, and equitable development across Norfolk’s neighborhoods.

Residents are encouraged to stay informed through upcoming community meetings and the Councilman Clanton Connect newsletter, where updates on this and other housing initiatives will be shared.

### About Councilman Carlos J. Clanton

Carlos J. Clanton serves as the Norfolk City Councilmember for Superward 7 and Co-Chair of the Mayor’s Commission for Housing. His focus on “Bridging, Building, and Empowering Our Neighborhoods” emphasizes housing affordability, public safety, neighborhood investment, and economic opportunity for all Norfolk residents.