I have received a lot of questions lately regarding the rights of landlords and residents when a resident at an apartment community tests positive for the coronavirus. While a landlord is required to notify residents and the public regarding a positive COVID-19 case at his or her property, they may not in any way reveal the identity of the person who tested positive. Following is an example of a Notice that can be provided to residents when there is a positive COVID-19 case at your property:
COVID -19 CASE NOTIFICATION TO RESIDENTS
We have recently learned that a resident of [property name] has tested positive for the COVID-19 coronavirus. We cannot reveal the person’s name, unit number, floor, or any other information that could be reasonably used to determine his or her identity. We therefore kindly request that you not ask us to provide such details.
What we can tell you, though, is that the person has been advised and agreed to follow Centers for Disease Control [CDC] guidelines and remain in self-isolation for at least 14 days.
We are urging all residents to remain calm and follow CDC and state and local public health guidelines with regard to social distancing, hygiene and hand washing, the use of personal protective equipment, and quarantine and self-isolation.
We also wish to assure you that we have and will continue to take extensive COVID-19 infection control measures, including regular and frequent cleaning and disinfection of common areas, including floors, surfaces, and door handles, handrails, elevator buttons, trash and recycling chutes, and other commonly touched objects.
Thank you for your understanding and for keeping in mind that COVID-19 is not a stigma or mark of shame and that those who contract it deserve our empathy, understanding, and kindness. Please be assured that we will share new information as it becomes available.
Stay strong, stay safe, and stay in communication with us, and we will all get through this pandemic together. Thank you.
[Property name] Management
[Date]
This notice (or one like it) should be used to put residents on notice of a confirmed COVID-19 case at your site without violating the ill person’s privacy or causing a panic.