Legal Rights when Renting an Apartment or House

The Fair Housing Act prohibits anyone from being denied the right to rent, against discrimination of race or color, national origin, religion, family status or handicap. The Department of Housing, and Urban Development enforces the Fair Housing Act. They want to be informed of any discrimination. Their toll free telephone number: 1-800-669-9777. The Act does exempt housing operating by an organization and private club, which limits occupancy members.

Also, owner occupied buildings with no more than four units, and single family housing sold or rented without the use of a broker. Any disabled person, can make modifications to a dwelling at the expense of the renter for easier access. However, before vacating the property, the disabled renter must restore at their expense, back to the original restoration. Renting an apartment or house, is beneficial only if the renter plans on living there for a short time, or needs time to familiarize living in a new neighborhood.

When agreeing upon a rental agreement between the landlord (Lessor) and tenant (Renter), there should be in writing a lease. A lease is a Long Term Contract, at least one year, and limited rights to end the agreement. The lease out lines the rights of the tenant, and the landlord. The lease must have the names of the landlord and tenant, description of the lease premises, the amount of the rent, and the duration of the lease. Also, include when the rent is due (day of the month), amount required for a security deposit, allowing or disallowing subletting, (Some lease contracts may stipulate restrictions for subletting), who will pay utilities, and if pets are allowed. Additional options maybe in including in the lease regarding any free services that are provided, parking availability, and specific laws of jurisdiction, regarding your city, county or state regulations.