Real Estate Tenants Rights
Landlords and tenants are both involved in leasing processes whether it is for an apartment or a house. Each party is expected to follow specific rules and are responsible for their legal matters. As a result, the landlord is obliged to build a functional and safe facility as per the terms and conditions of the lease agreement. It is a legal right of a landlord to receive monthly rent by the due date. On the other hand, there are some local, federal, and state rules determined for a tenant.
These rights include not becoming a victim of discrimination, not to pay extra money than allowed by the state law regarding a security deposit, and his right to get a comfortable house. Tenants with limited incomes don’t have plenty of housing choices. That is why they are willing to compromise with certain hassles. It is worth noting that the rights of a tenant are non-negotiable.
In light of this, here is an overview of real estate tenant rights.
1. Tenant Privacy Rights
As a tenant, you have a right to maintain a certain level of privacy. A landlord may need to visit your rental property for repairing and other purposes. In this case, they should send a notice beforehand.
2. A Habitable Home
A comfortable home is usually a place that is free from unsafe conditions such as holes in the floor, bad wiring, and lack of running water, an infestation of rats or cockroaches, etc. These problems hinder habitability. You need legal advice here as most state laws impede landlords from incorporating language in the lease documents to keep a tenant unaware of this right.
3. Anti-discrimination Laws
The federal Fair Housing Act prohibits a landlord from discrimination amongst the current or prospective tenants. A landlord cannot discriminate by tenant’s religion, ethnicity, race, gender, national origin, familial status, or disability.
4. Security Deposit
Tenants are often required to pay some amount as a security deposit when signing the lease documents. This deposit will return to him on the completion of lease terms (landlord can minus any unpaid rent or money used for cleaning and repair). A tenant is expected to pay an extra deposit in case of pets and other liabilities.
Legal Advice for Tenants
Signing lease documents and getting keys to your new apartment may seem a simple procedure but you never know when this process needs a legal advisor. It often happens when you find out an infestation in your house or when a landlord demands an additional security deposit. It is suggested to get legal help as a certified lawyer can explain local laws and how they apply to a particular condition.
Dealing with a legal dispute can be the pain in the neck if as a tenant you are not aware of your constitutional rights. You should consult with an experienced attorney whether you are a defendant or plaintiff. A lawyer will review documents, interview witnesses, research the laws, plan legal strategy, and negotiate with the landlord to obtain the case result in your favor.
Bottom Line
Contact Earl Jiang at 866-263-7866, to learn about your legal rights and get advice as a tenant