The City Council passed an act Wednesday that is aimed at holding Bronx and city slumlords accountable for repairs.

The Safe Housing Act immediately allows the Department of Housing, Preservation and Development to deal with the city's 200 worst buildings. The department would fix hazardous violations, then bill landlords for the costs. The act allows the city to seize buildings if landlords don't pay up.

Councilwoman Letitia James sponsored the bill. She says it will help improve living conditions for immigrants and low-income families.