Online Landlord-Tenant Legal Guide
Understand your rights and responsibilities under common U.S. landlord-tenant laws.
Understanding Your Legal Position
Navigating the relationship between a landlord and a tenant involves understanding a set of rights and obligations for both parties. These laws are designed to ensure fairness and clarity. This guide provides a high-level overview of key topics based on general legal principles in the United States. State and local laws can vary significantly, so this guide should be used for informational purposes only.
How to use this guide: As you review each section, check the boxes next to the points you want to include in your summary. The final tab will compile your selections into a personalized "Key Rights & Actions" document that you can download as a PDF.
Lease Agreements
The lease is the most important document in the landlord-tenant relationship. It is a legally binding contract that outlines the terms of the rental. It should be read carefully before signing.
Security Deposits
Most landlords require a security deposit to cover any damages caused by the tenant beyond normal wear and tear. Laws strictly regulate how these deposits are handled.
Repairs & Maintenance
Landlords are generally required to keep the rental property in a safe and habitable condition. This is often referred to as the "implied warranty of habitability."
The Eviction Process
Eviction is a legal process a landlord must follow to remove a tenant from a rental property. A landlord cannot simply change the locks or throw out a tenant's belongings.