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Landlord-tenant law governs the relationship between property owners and renters. It establishes rights, responsibilities, and procedures that both parties must follow. These laws vary significantly by state and locality. Understanding the legal framework helps landlords and tenants protect their interests and avoid disputes.

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What This Section Covers

Lease Agreements

Creating, modifying, and enforcing rental contracts

Landlord Rights

Property access, rent collection, rule enforcement

Tenant Rights

Habitability, privacy, security deposits, fair treatment

Eviction Process

Legal procedures for removing tenants

Security Deposits

Collection, holding, deductions, and return

Disputes

Resolving conflicts between landlords and tenants
Every state has landlord-tenant statutes covering security deposits, eviction procedures, habitability standards, and other core issues. These set baseline requirements.
Cities and counties may add requirements beyond state law. Rent control, just-cause eviction, and additional tenant protections are common in some jurisdictions.
Contracts between landlords and tenants create additional rights and obligations. Lease terms cannot contradict applicable law.
Fair Housing Act prohibits discrimination. Other federal laws apply in specific situations (lead paint disclosure, military tenant protections).
Laws vary dramatically by location. What’s permitted in one state may be prohibited in another. Always verify requirements for your specific jurisdiction.

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Key Concepts

ConceptMeaning
HabitabilityLandlords must maintain livable conditions (plumbing, heating, electricity, structure). Cannot be waived.
Quiet enjoymentTenants have right to peaceful possession without unreasonable landlord interference.
Security depositsRegulated in most states with limits on amounts, holding requirements, and return timelines.
EvictionMust follow legal process. Self-help eviction (changing locks, shutting utilities) is illegal everywhere.
RetaliationLandlords cannot punish tenants for exercising legal rights.
Landlords: Eviction proceedings, lease drafting, fair housing compliance, tenant disputes heading to court. Tenants: Wrongful eviction defense, unresolved habitability issues, discrimination claims, significant deposit disputes. Many areas have tenant rights organizations offering free or low-cost assistance.

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