In most states and jurisdictions, landlord responsibilities cover, at least to some degree, protection of their tenants. This protection responsibility may impose a legal duty on the landlord to take steps to protect their tenants from thieves, assailants, and criminal acts from other tenants. In addition to this responsibility to the tenants, landlords may also…
Here are some of the most frequently asked questions regarding landlord responsibilities when it comes to protecting their tenants from criminals and other tenants. • What responsibilities does a landlord have for the tenants’ safety and security? • Are there ways that a landlord can limit their responsibility for the criminal acts of others that…
Disputes over security deposits are the most common disagreements between tenants and landlords. Due to this, states have laws and regulations concerning what landlords can use the security deposit for, and the timeline for when a landlord has to return the security deposit. As in any legal dispute, if you believe that your landlord is…
Every tenant has the right to privacy; however, a landlord has also the right to maintain their property. Sometimes, a landlord must enter a tenant’s apartment to deal with emergencies; such as making repairs or showing the apartment to another potential tenant. Even though a tenant cannot unreasonably deny landlord access to their apartment, the…
If you are thinking about asking someone to live with you and share expenses, then you should learn what is required to add a roommate to your lease. Be aware that if your lease specifically states that no roommates are allowed, you could be evicted by adding a roommate in violation of this clause. Adding…
The property manager/owner is responsible for ensuring the property is fit to live in and in a good state of repair. The tenant must notify them of any repairs needed. If a tenant, or their guest, damages the property, they may have to pay for repairs. Example 1. If a tenant breaks a window by…
A landlord is allowed to sell their property during your tenancy even if you have a fixed term tenancy agreement. The landlord or the landlord’s agent has to comply with the tenancy law when they are selling. Viewings and inspections If they give you the proper notice, the landlord has a right to show the…
A tenant residing in Florida may have certain legal rights when the landlord fails to maintain the premises. Due to the warm and humid climate in South Florida, it is common for tenants to have roof leaks, air conditioning leaks, and pipe bursts all of which introduces water into the property. Water intrusion that is not…
Just when your life finally feels stable and calm, you hear that your landlord has died. Since it is clear that ownership of the property will pass to someone else, you’re likely to be worried about your future there. Who will inherit? Are they likely to sell? Can they kick you out? Will they have…
Experience is the best teacher… and this month, I learned quite a bit. In the age of working in the cloud, I have finally decided it’s time for me to reduce my business office’s foot print. I no longer need 800 square feet. So, I started looking at executive offices. It makes sense to share…
