Your Rights as a Tenant

When you rent real estate, such as an apartment, condo, or house, there are certain rights you have in the process. If you are in need of forms to assist you in your rental quest, check out MyLegalEdge.com. You may contact our staff at staff@mylegaledge.com or leave your comment here at MyLegalReview.com.

Things You Should Know

Federal Law Prohibits Discrimination for the  Following Reasons:

• Race
• Color
• National Origin
• Sex
• Age
• Family Status
• Physical Disability
• Mental Disability

Things You Should Do

When renting, there are several things that you should remember to do:

1. Bring Your Paperwork: When you meet your possible landlord, make sure you are prepared. Bring the completed lease application, written references from other landlords, and a copy of your current credit report.

2. Review the Lease: Make sure you also review the conditions of the lease prior to signing it. Careful review will keep you from having major surprises later.

3. Get It In Writing: To avoid possible misunderstanding with your landlord, get everything in writing. Keep all of your correspondence and any oral agreements that are made should be reduced to writing.

4. Privacy is a Must: Make sure you understand your privacy rights pertaining to the amount of notice your landlord must provide before entering your rental property.

5. Repairs: Learn your rights about living in a habitable space. As a tenant, you are entitled to live in property that is weatherproofed, that has heat and water, that is clean and sanitary.

6. Talking with Your Landlord: Make sure to keep your communication open with your landlord. Many potential problems can be solved this way.

7. Purchase Renter’s Insurance: It is a good idea to purchase renter’s insurance to cover your personal property while you are renting. Check with an insurance agent to get the best price for your situation.

8. Keeping Tabs on the Security Deposit: Make sure that you understand the use and refund policies on the security deposit. When you move in, it is best to do a walk through and record any damages on a checklist.

9. Be Safe: Check to see whether your landlord has followed all safety rules. You are renting in a high crime area, your landlord may be obligated to take certain steps to assist you with your safety in the building where you live.

10. Dealing with an Eviction: If you feel that your landlord is wrong, you may want to fight the eviction (for example, if  you did not receive proper notice). The best way to handle the eviction is to know your rights beforehand and make sure there is clear communication as to your responsibilities and those of your landlord.

Prior to filing a rental application, you may want to do a review of your credit report. Below are links to the three main credit bureaus that will have your credit information:

• Equifax: http://www.equifax.com
• Experian: http://www.experian.com
• TransUnion: http://www.transunion.com

Following these tips will allow you to have a smooth transition during your rental. For forms to assist you in your rental procedures, check out MyLegalEdge.com. You can also contact us at staff@mylegaledge.com or you can leave your comment here at MyLegalReview.com.