Renters have rights just like owners and landlords have rights. But if you don't know what those rights are, how are you supposed to know if you're being treated fairly (or legally) as a renter? Let's find your state's rights for both renters and landlords.
Here in Florida, you can find your rights in the 2019 Florida Statutes. Look to Chapter 83 - Landlord & Tenant, Part II - Residential Tenancies, from 83.40 - 83.683. Here are some of the items that it covers:
Definition of relevant terms in 83.43
Unconscionable rental agreements which courts may refuse to endorse in 83.45
Security deposit money, where it can be placed, conditions under which amounts can be withheld by the landlord in 83.49
Things the landlord is obligated to maintain for you as a renter in 83.51
Things you as a renter agree to maintain in 83.52
Rules about when your landlord can access the property, notice required in 83.53
Termination of the rental agreement by both the landlord or tenant in 83.56
What occurs when a property is foreclosed upon in 83.561
What occurs if a tenant doesn't vacate a property in 83.59
How it's handled when a tenant terminates a lease early in 83.595
Eviction proceedings, power to award possession & enter a money judgment in 83.60 - 83.625
Damages caused by the tenant in 83.63
Retaliatory conduct not permitted against the tenant in 83.64
Things your landlord cannot due when you are a tenant in 83.67
Termination of a lease by someone in the service in 83.682
Rental application filed by a service member in 83.683
OK, so what if you're not in Florida... where can you find information about your rights as a renter? Do a Google search for the name of your state followed by the words landlord tenant laws (for example, Hawaii landlord tenant laws or Texas landlord tenant laws). Look for a website ending in .gov or .state.__.us (with the two letter abbreviation for your state appearing between state and us).
Oftentimes, the answers to questions you have will be found in your lease. However, if you feel you are being treated unfairly as a renter, it's important to know where to turn to find out your rights!
Looking for more tips for renters and landlords? Visit our blog at www.leesburg4rent.com/blog - we post on Mondays - Fridays. Thanks!
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