Renter's Rights & Complaints
A variety of laws from housing discrimination to eviction procedures protect renters. Most tenant or renter laws, both federal and state, are based on the Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act, approved in 1974.
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Anti-discrimination laws
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Landlords cannot discriminate against an individual based on race, color, religion, national origin. Some states also prohibit discrimination based on marital status and sexual orientation.
Tenant Privacy Laws
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Some states require that the tenant be provided with at least 24-hour written notice before entry. Landlords can enter the premises only to make necessary repairs, in the case of emergency or to show the property to prospective tenants. In many cases, 24-hour notice must be given to tenants.
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Major repairs
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Tenants have the right to live in a structurally sound home. Landlords must make major repairs in a reasonable time period. Major repairs include structural damage, electrical or heating problems, and water or plumbing issues.
Minor repairs
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Depending on lease and state, landlords could be required to fix minor repairs such as peeling paint and worn carpet.
Evictions
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Landlords must follow detailed eviction procedures. If you fail to pay rent or seriously violate the lease, you could receive an immediate eviction notice. If there is no reason for the eviction, you could receive a 30-day or 60-day eviction notice. In May 2009, President Barack Obama also signed into law a protection that will help renters stay in their homes after their landlord has been foreclosed on. The law allows tenants to remain in the foreclosed rentals through the end of their lease and then 90 days after that before being forced to vacate by the lender. Renters without leases will have 90 days.
Help and Tips
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If your landlord has violated your rights as a tenant, contact a professional. In addition, most areas have nonprofit renters' resources. Use websites such as Rentlaw.com to find a state-run center or attorney to help you.
Other tips for renters include review the lease before signing; get everything in writing; purchase renters' insurance; protect your security deposit, such as making sure that normal wear and tear will not be penalized; and protect your safety.
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References
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- Photo Credit Image by Flickr.com, courtesy of Jeff Turner Image by Flickr.com, courtesy of Zilupe Image by Flickr.com, courtesy of Kevin Dooley
