Apartment Rental Rights
Housing is such an essential need that tenants sometimes feel powerless when wronged by a landlord. Every tenant has a set of rights, though, and those rights might even trump the language in a lease. Apartment renters should get to know their rights before taking on their landlords.
Other People Are Reading
-
Fair Housing Act
-
The Fair Housing Act protects all renters in the United States. According to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, it is illegal to refuse to rent an apartment or set different terms, conditions or privileges based on race, color, national origin, religion, sex, familial status or handicap. In addition, a landlord may not refuse reasonable modifications to an apartment at the renter's expense if necessary when a disabled person is using the apartment.
Get It in Writing
-
Apartment lease agreements can be long and tedious. It is imperative, though, that a renter read this agreement before signing it. Many are standard, but a thorough review will make sure the landlord doesn't make an addition that could cause problems for the tenant later. Renters should understand their responsibilities in regard to the payment of rent and upkeep of the apartment.
-
Know Your State Laws
-
Apartment renters' rights vary by state, though many are similar. Before entering into a lease agreement, renters should understand their rights. Some laws trump the language in a lease agreement. A list of renters' rights by state is available on the website of the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development.
Deposit Limits
-
About half the states set limits on what landlords can collect as a security deposit, according to legal publisher Nolo. The limit is usually one or two months' rent. In most states, landlords are not allowed to deduct from a security deposit for normal wear and tear. Others require an itemized list of deductions.
Fighting for Your Rights
-
Renters who believe their rights have been violated can contact the office of their state's attorney general. Even if the office can't get involved directly, the staff there should be able to recommend the best course of action based.
-
