Mayor Thomas Menino, during a Friday press conference, promised a crackdown by the city on problem properties where cash-strapped students may face unsafe conditions.

Speaking in front of a crowd in Allston, Menino addressed a situation new tenants, many of whom are students, will soon come to realize if they haven’t already: some properties are not meeting standards.

Menino held his Allston press conference in front of 84 Ashford St., a designated “problem property,” while inspectors prepared to enter the home.

“We are going to make sure all the units meet all requirements,” Menino said.

With the September 1 move-in date, on top of the hordes of students returning to the area for the start of the new term, Menino, who is in his final months in office, showed perfect political timing with this latest press conference.

An ordinance passed last Decemeber to improve current health and safety standards in rental units by requiring that Boston landlords be held accountable if they fail to provide suitable housing to their tenants. The ordinance covers approximately 85 percent of Boston’s 167,800 units. Over the next five years, each unit will receive an approved inspection or be covered by an Inspectional Service-approved alternative compliance plan.

Expectedly, the ordinance has faced backlash from local landlords. Menino, however, has made it clear: “We’re serious and we’re going to make it work,” said Menino.

Photo via Allston Village Main Street