As a renter, numerous laws affect you and your landlord. Some stem from the state you live in, while others are federal laws that apply to renters in all states. Understanding these federal laws empowers you to know your rights (and what your landlord can and cannot legally do). This guide explores the top federal rental laws every tenant should understand.
- Fair Housing Act: Among federal laws that affect all renters, the Fair Housing Act, enacted in 1968, is paramount. It prohibits your landlord from discriminating against you because of your race, skin color, sex, religion, national origin, age, familial status, or mental or physical disability. Discrimination may be overt or subtle. If you believe your rental application was denied due to these factors, you can file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). Additionally, landlords must provide reasonable accommodations for tenants with a disability.
- Fair Credit Reporting Act: This federal law governs how a landlord can use your credit history to decide whether to rent to you. Your landlord must have your permission to run a credit check. If your application was denied due to your credit report, the landlord must inform you. Before you apply for a rental home, request a free copy of your credit report to review what your potential landlord will see when they run your credit and address anything that might raise some red flags.
- Americans with Disabilities Act: Under this law, a landlord cannot refuse to rent to you because you have a service animal, nor can they charge you additional “pet fees” or increase the rent due to it. You may need to prove it is licensed and registered per state and local laws to confirm it’s a legitimate service animal. A service animal is considered a reasonable accommodation that landlords must legally allow.
- Landlord-Tenant Laws (varies by state): Landlord-tenant laws in the U.S. safeguard renters and establish expectations for both parties. These laws ensure your right to a safe, livable home, privacy, and fair treatment. Your landlord must provide notice before entering your rental (except in emergencies) and adhere to rules for handling security deposits. Since these vary by state, review your lease and local laws to fully understand your rights.
- Lead Disclosures: Federal law requires that anyone renting a property built before 1978 provide disclosure about the potential for lead exposure. Homes built before 1978 often have lead-based paint, which can flake or chip off, posing health hazards. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) mandates landlords to disclose whether the property has lead paint and provide evidence of a certified lead hazard inspection if requested.
Grasping the federal and state laws that apply to you and your landlord as a renter is vital for protecting yourself from unfair property owners. For peace of mind, contact Real Property Management Northern Arizona. Our experts in Bullhead City comply with federal, state, and local laws, ensuring fair treatment. Explore our listings online or call 928-757-7368!
Originally Published on April 29, 2022
We are pledged to the letter and spirit of U.S. policy for the achievement of equal housing opportunity throughout the Nation. See Equal Housing Opportunity Statement for more information.
