Boarder Information

Some single family homes function as boarding houses.

The legal definition of a boarding house is a residence where food and shelter are provided to non-family members of the household. Specific laws govern and protect the residents of these homes, called boarders.

Rights of Boarders

Each state has some legislation to protect the rights of boarders. New Jersey gives boarders the right to privacy in their financial and medical affairs, to entertain visitors at reasonable hours, to a safe and decent living environment, and to practice their religion at the home.

Eviction

The law and protections that apply to other tenants do not always apply to boarders. Georgia, for example, gives the landlord the right to evict boarders without notice whenever the rent is due.

Get Help

Boarders have the right to seek legal or government help if their rights as boarders are breached. The Virginia Fair Housing Office oversees the rights of boarders and other renters in Virginia.

References

• Duhaime: Boarding House Definition
• You and the Law in New Jersey: Rooming and Boarding Homes and Mobile Home Parks
• Virginia Cooperate Extension: Renter's Rights and Responsibilities
• Atlanta Legal Aid: Tenants' Rights in Georgia