Requiring COVID vaccination in owner-occupied building

[Suzanne Lord]

Let's say the owner of a multifamily, owner-occupied building is immuno-compromised. When listing for new tenants, would it be legitimate -- and would it be wise -- to require proof of full COVID vaccination? Would it make sense even to list that preference will be given to fully vaccinated applicants? What would be the upsides and downsides of doing so?

[Nathan Gesner]

Are you going to check them for measles, flu, meningitis, shingles, etc? Are you going to tell them they can't have guests unless the guests can show proof of vaccination? What if they have the common cold or flu?

What's more important to you: rental income, or your health? If staying alive is more important than earning a few bucks, I recommend you sell the investment property and purchase a single-family home or a duplex with totally separate spaces so you can control your environment. I think it's unrealistic and unfair to expect everyone else to live in a bubble so you can live free.