A tenant is an individual who resides in a house or apartment owned by someone else. They provide payment to the landlord in exchange for the privilege of staying there. It can be likened to borrowing a friend’s toy temporarily, except in this case, it involves a living space.
A tenant is an individual or company that rents or occupies a property owned by a landlord for a temporary period. For instance, John is a tenant who rents an apartment from his landlord, while ABC Company is a tenant that occupies a commercial space for their business. These examples exemplify the concept of a tenant as someone who occupies a property owned by another person. Both John and ABC Company are tenants as they rent properties from their respective landlords.
In most cases, landlords can only increase rent at the end of a lease term or with proper notice as specified in the rental agreement or local laws.
Landlords generally need a valid reason, such as non-payment of rent, violation of lease terms, or property damage, to evict a tenant. However, specific eviction laws vary by jurisdiction.
Landlords typically need to provide notice and obtain consent before entering a rental unit, except in emergency situations or when specified in the lease agreement.
Landlords can withhold a portion or the entire security deposit for legitimate reasons, such as unpaid rent or damages beyond normal wear and tear. They must provide an itemized list of deductions within a specified timeframe.
Breaking a lease early usually comes with penalties, such as paying rent for the remaining lease term or finding a replacement tenant. However, some jurisdictions have laws allowing tenants to terminate a lease under certain circumstances, such as domestic violence or military deployment.
No, landlords cannot discriminate against tenants based on protected characteristics, as outlined in federal and state fair housing laws.
Landlords have a legal obligation to maintain a habitable living environment and make necessary repairs. If they fail to do so, tenants may have the right to withhold rent, repair and deduct, or terminate the lease.
Generally, landlords cannot unilaterally change the terms of a lease agreement during the lease term. Any changes should be mutually agreed upon and documented in writing.
Landlords are prohibited from retaliating against tenants who exercise their legal rights, such as filing a complaint or reporting code violations. Retaliation can include eviction, rent increases, or harassment.
Landlords must allow tenants to retrieve their personal belongings left behind after moving out. If the landlord refuses, tenants may have legal recourse to recover their belongings.
This site contains general legal information but does not constitute professional legal advice for your particular situation. Persuing this glossary does not create an attorney-client or legal adviser relationship. If you have specific questions, please consult a qualified attorney licensed in your jurisdiction.
This glossary post was last updated: 17th April 2024.
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