Landlord Rights Regarding Military Tenants

Military tenants are granted special rights under federal law.

While federal (and sometimes state) laws grant military tenants special privileges in the landlord-tenant relationship, landlords have rights, too. Landlords are entitled to advance notice of a military tenant's deployment and to contact military authorities in case of problems.

Leases and Rental Agreements

Leases and rental agreements are binding contracts between landlords and tenants. Unilateral termination of a lease or rental agreement is only allowed under specific circumstances.

Miltary Tenants

Many members of the military choose to live off-base in housing owned by private landlords. State and federal laws determine exceptions to normal landlord-tenant laws and regulations for military members.

Servicemembers' Civil Relief Act

The Servicemember's Civil Relief Act allows military tenants, and their dependents, to terminate a housing lease under certain circumstances if military obligations require the service member (or her dependents) to relocate.

Notice of Lease Termination

If a member of the military is deployed or reassigned for more than 90 days, the landlord is entitled to written notice that the tenant is terminating the lease. The landlord is also entitled to rent for 30 days after the next rent payment is due following the written notice.

Intervention of Military Authorities

Landlords who have difficulties with their military tenant are encouraged to contact their tenant's base authorities for assistance.

References

• Military: Servicemembers Civil Relief Act Overview
• Office of the Under Secretary of Defense: Military Housing
• PennLive: Homes and Rentals
• Nolo: Lease & Rental Agreement FAQ
• Military: SCRA Frequently Asked Questions