As a tenant, understanding your rights is crucial. It helps you experience a secure and harmonious living arrangement.
While landlords have legitimate authority over their properties, it’s important to be aware of the boundaries that protect you from potential infringements.
In this guide, we’ll talk about the essential aspects of your rights as a tenant. This specifically focuses on what a landlord cannot do without obtaining your explicit permission.
So, read on!
Alterations to the Property
Whether you’re a tenant at Traverse Commons Apartments or any other rental space, it’s crucial to be aware of the changes in your rented abode. Your landlord can’t just swing the hammer without your say-so. Major changes like knocking down walls, installing new fixtures, or even painting the place in a shade that isn’t beige require your explicit permission.
It’s your space, after all, and any significant modifications should align with your preferences.
Entry Into Your Domain
Privacy is key, even when you’re just apartment living. Your landlord can’t waltz in whenever they please, whether it’s to fix a leaky faucet or show off the place to potential new tenants. They need to give you a heads-up and seek your agreement.
Now, emergencies like a burst pipe might need immediate attention, but for most cases, a 24-hour notice is the name of the game.
Bumping Up the Rent
Financial surprises aren’t always welcome, especially when it involves your rent money. Your landlord can’t just up and increase your rent on a whim. They need to provide a proper explanation, usually tied to things like property taxes or maintenance costs.
But even then, they can’t slap on a new number. They need to give you adequate notice before reaching into your wallet.
Saying Goodbye to Your Security Deposit
That security deposit you shelled out when moving in? It’s not a free pass for your landlord to pocket as they please. They can only dip into it for valid reasons – like unpaid rent or damages beyond normal wear and tear.
If they’re planning to dip into your deposit, they need to get your buy-in, providing an itemized list of damages and costs. You have the right to know where your hard-earned money is going.
Eviction Plans
Just like you can’t decide to pack up and leave without notice, your landlord can’t kick you out on a whim either. If they’re thinking about giving you the boot, they need to follow the proper legal channels and provide you with enough notice.
Evictions need to be done for valid reasons, like unpaid rent or violating the lease rental agreement. Even then, they can’t change the locks and call it a day – they have to go through the court system.
Get to Know What a Landlord Cannot Do
All in all, a tenant needs to know their rights and be aware of what a landlord cannot do. Tenants should look into their legal obligations and make sure landlords are respecting their rights. With knowledge and understanding of what is allowed, tenants can protect themselves and their rights.
Contact an attorney if you have any questions or concerns about tenant rights or landlord violations.
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