Apartment Lease Rights

When a tenant signs an apartment lease, he becomes bound by the terms of the lease agreement but is also entitled to certain legal rights under the law.

Right To Privacy

When a lease is in effect, the landlord should not enter the premises without giving written notice at least 24 hours in advance. A landlord can not change the locks on a tenant's apartment without notice, or attempt to forcibly evict a tenant.

Health and Safety Rights

In many states, landlords are required to disclose information about the presence of lead paint, asbestos and other hazardous materials to the tenant before the lease is signed, via an addendum in the lease agreement.

Lease Agreements

The landlord can not make changes to the lease agreement without first informing the tenant in writing of his intent to do so. In some cities, particularly in the case of rent-controlled apartments, increases in monthly rent during the term of a lease are not permitted.

References

• Consumer Affairs: Tenant Rights