Rights
Here are 25 popular rights that tenants and landlords should understand when dealing with housing and landlord-tenant disputes:
1. Right to a Habitable Home: Tenants have the right to live in a property that meets basic health and safety standards.
2. Right to Privacy: Tenants have the right to privacy in their rental home, meaning landlords must give proper notice before entering.
3. Right to Non-Discrimination: Tenants are protected from discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, or familial status under the Fair Housing Act.
4. Right to Security Deposit Return: Tenants have the right to receive their security deposit back, minus any legitimate deductions, after moving out.
5. Right to Due Process in Evictions: Tenants cannot be evicted without proper notice and a court order.
6. Right to Organize: Tenants have the right to join or form tenant unions without fear of retaliation from landlords.
7. Right to Withhold Rent: In some jurisdictions, tenants can withhold rent if the landlord fails to make necessary repairs, provided certain conditions are met.
8. Right to Repair and Deduct: Tenants may have the right to pay for repairs and deduct the cost from rent if the landlord fails to address serious maintenance issues.
9. Right to Reasonable Accommodations: Tenants with disabilities have the right to request reasonable accommodations to use and enjoy their home.
10. Right to Notice of Rent Increases: Landlords must provide proper notice before increasing rent, as specified in the lease or by local law.
11. Right to Safe Common Areas: Tenants have the right to safe and well-maintained common areas in multi-unit buildings.
12. Right to Challenge Evictions: Tenants have the right to challenge an eviction in court.
13. Right to a Written Lease: Tenants have the right to a written lease that outlines the terms and conditions of the rental agreement.
14. Right to Fair Late Fees: Any late fees must be reasonable and outlined in the lease agreement.
15. Right to Return of Personal Property: If a tenant leaves personal property behind after moving out, the landlord must follow legal procedures before disposing of it.
16. Right to a Rent Receipt: Tenants have the right to receive a receipt for rent payments, especially if paid in cash.
17. Right to Sublet: Depending on the lease terms, tenants may have the right to sublet their apartment, often with landlord approval.
18. Right to Quiet Enjoyment: Tenants have the right to enjoy their home without interference from the landlord or other tenants.
19. Right to Terminate Lease Early: Under certain circumstances, such as domestic violence or military deployment, tenants may have the right to terminate a lease early without penalty.
20. Right to Know Landlord’s Identity: Tenants have the right to know the identity and address of the landlord or property manager.
21. Right to Safe and Functional Utilities: Tenants have the right to safe and functional utilities, such as water, heat, and electricity.
22. Right to Legal Counsel: Tenants have the right to seek legal counsel for disputes with landlords.
23. Right to Timely Repairs: Tenants have the right to expect timely repairs for any issues affecting health and safety.
24. Right to Be Free from Retaliation: Landlords cannot retaliate against tenants for exercising their legal rights, such as reporting code violations.
25. Right to Access Housing Services: Tenants have the right to access housing services provided by local or state agencies for assistance.
Understanding these rights can help tenants and landlords navigate disputes more effectively and ensure compliance with applicable laws. Always consider consulting with a legal professional for specific issues related to housing disputes.