Renters Rights

This refers to a tenant that moves out quickly without giving notice and without paying rent. Many times furniture and personal belongings might be left behind. If a Landlord suspects a tenant has abandoned their apartment, upon proper notice, your Landlord usually is able to change locks and auction off your belongings to re-coop rent and/or cost after they have stored your belongings for a specific amount of time as dictated per State. Or the Landlord can charge for the cost to store and move personal belongings.
Rule of Thumb: If you are going to be leaving for an extended amount of time, notify your Landlord and make arrangements to pay your rent ON-TIME.

Standard rentals are equipped with fridges and ranges. Some rentals may provide additional appliances such as: microwaves, garbage disposals, dishwashers, washers, dryers, hand-held kitchen appliances, etc. It is your responsibility to ensure that appliances are well maintained and not abused. Tenants are responsible for repair costs if damage is due to negligence or abuse. Landlords are responsible for Normal Wear and Tear.
Rule of Thumb: Never replace or fix appliances without written permission. Continually clean and maintain as suggested by manufacturer. They belong to the Landlord.

The Application used by Landlords usually includes: Legal Name, Social Security #, Date of Birth, Employment History, Rental History, Criminal History, Bank Accounts, Current Income, Driver License #, Car Make and Model, and permission to verify any and all information including Credit and Background Checks. Depending on the Landlord, this process may take anywhere from several minutes to a couple of weeks. Most Landlords will charge for Credit/Background checks, some States may allow a fee for the application itself.
Rule of Thumb: Always answer questions honestly and accurately, even it may count against you, if not, the Landlord will most likely discover the truth through the verification process.

Once approved, you have the right to make Lease arrangements or to cancel. Remember time is of the essence and you should alert the Landlord with your intentions immediately. If you choose not to rent from the said rental, you will most likely be required to forfeit your fees associated with the cost of Background/Credit checks. If you had placed a Security Deposit with the Landlord, you are entitled to a refund.
Rule of Thumb: Only apply for a rental if you have intentions to move in.

If your Application is declined it is most likely due to: Credit History, Criminal History, Pets, # of People, Smoking, Employment History, and/or References. Landlords should provide declined applicants with a written explanation. It is illegal for a Landlord to decline a prospective tenant for discrimination reasons. As you are aware, most of time there will be multiple applications for the same rental property. It is common for the Landlord to accept another applicant. If your application is not accepted due to the fact that the Landlord rented the unit to another applicant, you should be entitled to a full refund of fees paid.
Rule of Thumb: If you are declined, move on, don't make an issue of it.

Landlords will perform Background Checks to eliminate risk and to promote a safe environment. Background Checks will usually include the following: State/Federal Criminal Search, Court Records, Employment History, Address History, Sex Offenders Registry, References, and Social Security Records. Background Checks are different from Credit Reports in that they check primarily behavior patterns.
Rule of Thumb: Be honest about your history, even if it may make you look bad. It is much worse to have your Landlord discover it.

Many Landlords won't accept personal checks as it puts them at risk. If your check bounces, you will be responsible for check fees, late fees and possibly legal fees. Once you've written a Bad Check, you are at risk for Eviction. Your Landlord is not required to accept payment after receiving a Bad Check. This is due to the fact that you have breached your Lease Agreement and gives your Landlord cause for Eviction.
Rule of Thumb: Only write a check if there is money in the account TODAY.

As a Renter you are responsible for keeping a clean living environment. Cleanliness promotes a safe and disease free home. It is very possible to be evicted for not having a clean rental. Problems arising from uncleanliness include: Infestations, Odor, Mold, Diseases etc.
Rule of Thumb: Vacuum and clean regularly.

If you owe back rent and or legal fees, it is likely that you will be sent to a collections agency. Once your debt has gone to a collection agency, it will affect your credit scores greatly and you may be required to pay additional fees. If you have mistakenly been sent to a Collection Agency, you will want to call your local police department to determine your options.
Rule of Thumb: Take collections seriously - Past rent will not just go away.

As a Cosigner, you are taking on full responsibilities as though you were the actual renter. It is recommended to never Cosign unless you are certain it will not negatively effect your credit. If your Landlord requests a cosigner, you may be able to negotiate by paying the 1st and last months rent in advance - as that will also guarantee rent.
Rule of Thumb: Never Cosign unless you are willing to take on someone's full responsibility of rent.

For Landlord/Tenant disputes you will be summoned to the Justice Court in your area. The justice court is set-up to handle small claims cases. If you have been summoned to court, you will need to respond to the courts as to your intentions. The courts will typically ask you for a statement concerning the allegatons against you. Never avoid responding to court summons as it will greatly impact you and your credit. If you are guilty of non-payment, it is best to plead quilty and make arrangements to vacate the premises immediately.
Rule of Thumb: Read and respond to all documents immediately.

This process will pull a history of your financials. It will include: Debts, Accounts, Evictions, Judgments, Collections, Fica Scores, etc. Your credit will only be pulled after your Landlord has received your written permission; it is almost always done during the application process. Please note that each time your credit is pulled, it will report as an inquiry on your record and may slightly impact your Fico score. Too many inquiries will not be good for your credit. Most Landlords will charge you a fee to pull your credit. If you pay for it, you are entitled to a copy.
Rule of Thumb: Only give permission to pull your credit if you are serious about renting a rental.

There are several different types of Deposits for renting. No matter what they are called, they are used as security to ensure that the property will be returned in the same shape it was rented in. Although titled Cleaning Deposit- it can be used for repairs, cleaning, or owed rent. Most States require Landlords to account for cost charged to your deposit and to provide a explanation within a specified time (usually 14 to 30 days) after move date. Before your move, ask your Landlord for a check-out list to discover what your Landlord will look for during the final walk-through.
Rule of Thumb: Clean rental so that it is in the same or better condition as it was when you moved in.

A Security Deposit refers to any money accepted as a guarantee that the rental will be returned in the same condition it was rented in. Most States only allow total combined deposits to equal up to 1 and 1/2 of one month's rent. Landlords will usually have a non-refundable portion that will go to Normal Wear and Tear. Landlords should explain in a written document how the funds were used and provide this to you in a timely manner as dictated by each State. (usually 14 to 30 days after move-out).
Rule of Thumb: Before placing a deposit, get a copy of the written agreement concerning the refund.

Illegal Drug usage,distribution, and production is a serious offense and is a problem that is very well known to Landlords. As it is a great risk to Landlords and their properties, it is not tolerated. If you suspect illegal drug activity, document all licence plates and activity, alert your Landlord and contact the DEA. If you see illegal drug activity, dial 911 and report it immediately.
Rule of Thumb: Never ignore illegal activity - it is your responsibility to promote a safe environment.

Most Lease Agreements require a 30 day written notice of termination. However, if you are on a 1 year lease with an end lease date, it will not be necessary for your Landlord to post additional notice at the end of the lease. Some Landlords will expect tenants to move-out at the end of their lease. Be aware of your lease dates and make arrangements at least 30 Days in advance - or you may have a somewhat unexpected move. If you are planning to move at the end of your lease, you are not usually required to give any additional notice, but it would be courteous.
Rule of Thumb: Know your lease dates, and ALWAYS provide written notice of cancellation.

There are several types of Eviction Notices. An eviction is a legal notice to move out of said rental within a specific amount of time. The most common evictions are for non-payment or for breaking House Rules- and will usually require renter to move out within 3 days. If a renter remains after the 3 day period (or whatever specified period) the renter will be in Unlawful Detainer and may be required to pay up to 3 times rent cost per day; this is known as Treble Damages. Renters will also be required to pay Fees and Legal Cost.
Rule of Thumb: Pay on-time and obey House Rules. If you have received an eviction- read it carefully and respond immediately.

The Fair Housing Act prohibits discrimination of any of the following classes: Race or Color, Religion, Sex, National Origin, Familial Status, or Disability. Click on this link for more information regarding the Fair Housing Act.
Rule of Thumb: Treat all with respect!.

Most Lease Agreements will allow a reasonable number of visitors to stay for a few nights. You may be charged additional fees per guests that stay beyond a certain period, usually 1 week. Days are typically counted during a 1 month period on a per day basis and not by guest. For example: If you had 3 separate guests that each stay one weekend during the same month and their total occupancy during the month equals more than 1 week, you may be charged a fee for each total week stayed multiplied by the average number of guests. (Many Landlords will charge $100 per guest per week stayed) House Rules: You are responsible for all guests actions. Guests must obey the same rules as outlined in the Lease Agreement. You can be evicted for their actions.
Rule of Thumb: Ensure your guests are aware House Rules and that they obey them.

All Landlords are required to provide a safe living environment. Any conditions that result in health hazards should be dealt with immediately. Health standards are regulated differently in each State. For example: Some States will have implications for toxic Mold while others don't. Contact your Landlord if you see a health hazard. You may also contact your local Health Department for questions.
Rule of Thumb: Help promote a clean and safe living environment. Talk to your Landlord to resolve any major concerns. Only contact the Health Department if your Landlord is not willing to resolve it.

These are policies set by each Landlord for the purpose of creating expectations and order. Some House Rules may be city guidelines such as noise ordinances or pool regulations. Each tenant and their guest are required to respect and uphold ALL House Rules. Landlords have the right to evict for breaking one single House Rule.
Rule of Thumb: Know and understand ALL House Rules, make sure your guests comply.

Several welfare programs are available to assist renters with rent during hardships. Landlords are not required to accept welfare funds, except in cases of written agreements. Housing welfare may take several weeks to approve and will most likely kick in for next month's rent. It is the Renter's responsibility to ensure rent is paid in full and on-time. Renters should never expect their Landlord to waive rent or be lenient with payments - you signed the contract and agreed to the terms.
Rule of Thumb: Be prepared for hardships. Only use welfare programs once all other options are exhausted.

Landlords always have the right to inspect their rentals. Most states require a specific notice prior to entry. It is unlawful for a Landlord to enter without consensus, unless there is an emergency or hazard. Documented illegal activity may warrant inspection without notice. The most common reasons for entry are: Repairs, Drug Activity, Real Estate Dealings, City Inspectors, and/or Adherence to House Rules.
Rule of Thumb: Cooperate with your Landlord. Never deny access as it may lead to eviction.

Amounts vary by Landlord but are usually based on a percent of your monthly rent. Some Landlords may allow a grace period before charging a Late Fee. (Usually 3 to 5 days after the 1st of the month). Being late on your rent constitutes a breach of contract and allows cause for eviction.
Rule of Thumb: Avoid paying late - communicate with your Landlord.

If you are making a Late Payment make sure to include all Late Fees and total rent due. Always make late payments are in certified funds and not personal checks. Landlords are not required to accept Late Payment and may evict you. Get a receipt!
Rule of Thumb: Pay in full including fees with certified funds.

Federal law requires Landlords to provide tenants with the Pamphlet: "How to Protect Your Family from Lead" ONLY if their building was built in 1978 or earlier. Click here for Pamphlet:

• English Version
• Spanish Version

Rule of Thumb: If your rental has been painted since 1978, it should be free of hazards.

This is a written document stating ALL lease terms. Agreements will vary by Landlord but are usually fairly similar. Things to look for: Monthly Rent, House Rules, Fees, Lease Term, and Binding Responsibilities. Statue of Frauds requires everything to be in writing - never make verbal agreements.
Rule of Thumb: Ask for a copy. Only sign AFTER you understand all agreements. Never sign if the written contract contradicts a verbal agreement.

Some States may require your Landlord to change locks before re-renting the rental. Always request new locks prior to move in - even if it is at your cost. Keys can be duplicated with Landlords permission.
Rule of Thumb: Never give copies of keys to anyone not on the Lease Agreement. Request new locks prior to move-in.

If you or your Landlord are not able to resolve a dispute - you may want to consider Mediation. This process involves a 3rd party non-biased mediator who will help you both come to a mutual agreement. The Mediator's role is to act as a communication tool between you both. They will be able to ask questions in a professional manner. A mediator does not give judgment like the court system would, however, they may be able to help you and your Landlord come to an agreement.
Rule of Thumb: Avoid expensive and long court battles by using Mediation first.

Molds can be extremely toxic and cause irreversible health problems. Although many molds are fairly harmless - you should always take caution. Mold will grow in environments with moisture. The toxic molds will usually create slight symptoms of allergies and gradually grow into serious health problems. To avoid mold, always air out damp areas and clean kitchen and bathrooms frequently. If you suspect toxic mold, try contacting your local Health Department for answers. Some states may require Landlords to provide a mold free environment, but most do not have any regulations for toxic molds.
Rule of Thumb: Keep your home dry and well ventilated.

Before moving out, you must first give proper notice to your Landlord. If you are breaking a lease, you will most likely be expected to pay additional fees. Most lease agreements require a minimum 30 day written notice. If you are moving at the end of your lease, ask your Landlord for a check-out list. This will help you determine what should be done prior to final walk through.
Rule of Thumb: Give proper notice, and clean your rental.

If there is a New Owner/Landlord - They must honor all current written contracts. The new Landlord may change minor things and will obviously manage the property differently from your previous Landlord, but they cannot change anything that will change your original agreement. Many new Landlords will ask that you sign a new lease agreement stating their policies. You are not required to sign a new contract unless your Lease Agreement has expired. If you choose to sign a new Lease Agreement, make certain it will not impact you negatively. The biggest concern renters have with new Landlords are giant rent increases. New Landlords can only raise rent if there is a clause in the lease agreement allowing rent increases. If you are worried about big changes, refer to your Lease Agreement before stressing too much.
Rule of Thumb: Make a good impression, this may be your chance to start all over. Refer to your Lease Agreement for questions.

Be aware of your surroundings and be courteous. Never blast your music or TV as though you were the only person on the planet. If you cannot carry on a conversation in a normal voice, without turning down the music/TV, then it is way too loud. Music/TV and parties should be handled in a way that your neighbors are completely unaware of their existance. Noise disturbance is actually illegal in most states and can result in fines and Evictions. Almost all House Rules have strict policies concerning the quiet enjoyment of others. Police may be called if the noise persists, especially if it is beyond 10:30 at night.
Rule of Thumb: Repect others! This can be a serious problem with large consequences.

All renters will cause Normal Wear and Tear in their rentals. Small nail holes, worn carpet, and scuff marks are all considered normal. Landlords should not charge Renters deposits for Normal Wear and Tear. Things that are not considered Normal Wear and Tear may include: excessive nail holes, stains, other holes, broken doors/fixtures/appliances, smoke scent, pet dander, etc. Many times you may consider something Normal Wear and Tear while your Landlord deems it as excessive. If this happens, you may want to negotiate and offer to pay half.
Rule of Thumb: Leave the apartment in the same condition you received it in.

If you need to give a notice to your Landlord, make sure to put it in writing (Statue of Frauds), Date it, and make yourself a copy. Landlords usually require notice for the following: Changes to Rental, Changes to Original Agreement, Termination of Lease, Guests, etc.
Rule of Thumb: Always get permission - never assume even if it seems like no big deal.

Avoid making any Oral Contract. These contracts are not valid and hold no weight in the court systems. Statue of Frauds requires all contracts to be written. Many times a Renter will get permission from their Landlord orally- leaving them with no proof. Keep in mind most Landlords are extremely busy and may forget about oral arrangements.
Rule of Thumb: GET IT IN WRITING!

If you want to paint your rental, you must first get written permission. Painting is considered an alteration and requires permission. Some Landlords will require their rentals to be painted by professionals because imperfections are costly to fix. Avoid painting with dark colors as it will make the rental feel smaller and most likely will need to be repainted at the end of your lease.
Rule of Thumb: Get written permission, and use only white or warm colors.

You may be offered Reserved Parking or may be required to park on the street. Either way, it is usually stated in your Lease Agreement. Your Landlord has the right to tow any vehicles that are parked in private reserved stalls. In most cases, anyone can park on the street unless marked, in most cases your Landlord will not be able to tow vehicles parked on the street as it is public domain.
Rule of Thumb: Make sure your reserved parking is well marked.

This is usually mandated by each state as to the expectations and responsibilities of the Landlord. Most pests come from uncleanliness and are the responsibility of the Renter. In cases of infestation, you should request that your Landlord pay for an exterminator. Avoid hiring an exterminator yourself if your intent is to have your Landlord pay you back. Without a Landord's permission, he/she is not liable for extermination cost that you hired out. Contact your Health Department to answer your questions about health concerns.
Rule of Thumb: Maintain a clean living environment - buy some Black Flag.

Pets are always considered a privilege and not a right. Many Landlords avoid renting to people with pets as it can be very expensive to clean-up. If you have pets, make sure to get permission in writing, or you may be faced with a pet eviction. Never get any sort of pet without written permission, you might get stuck with an eviction and clean-up costs.
Rule of Thumb: Be prepared for the extra responsibility - ALWAYS get written permission.

Pools are a privilege and not a right. Pool rules are extremely important and may save your life. Before swimming, make certain you understand the rules and risks involved. You are responsible for your guests and their actions. Never bring glass containers or food into the pool area. Never leave children unattended. Your Landlord should carry insurance for pool accidents, however, you are swimming at your own risk and you may have to sign a waiver releasing your Landlord from any responsibility.
Rule of Thumb: Don't swim alone and know the rules.

You probably won't be receiving a letter anytime soon with a rent decrease. Rent Discount typically refers to rent credits for pre-approved costs for repairs etc. Don't assume your Landlord will pay unless it is in writing and approved. If approved give your Landlord receipts and breakdown of costs.
Rule of Thumb: Get receipts and written permission.

Expect to see rent increases once or twice a year. This is dictated by your Lease Agreement and is usually capped at a specific percent of your current rate. Your Landlord is required to give you notice of a rent increase in writing and in advance. Most states require a minimum of a 30 day notice. If you are locking into a yearly lease make sure there is not a rent increase clause.
Rule of Thumb: Refer to your Lease Agreement to ensure your Landlord is complying with your original contract.

As a renter your personal belongings are not covered by your Landlord. In the event of a fire, flood, or other catastrophe, you will not receive any reimbursement for your personal property. Your Landlord's insurance is on the building will only cover their building. Contact your local insurance office to get quotes on Renter's Insurance. Renter's Insurance is typically very reasonable and very worthwhile.
Rule of Thumb: If you can afford it, get it!

As a Renter you are responsible for many things, primarily: Paying Rent, House Rules, Cleanliness, Communicating Problems, and overall being a Respectful Tenant. Your Lease Agreement is a legally binding contract and you will be held accountable for all agreements made within. Your Landlord is entrusting you with expensive real estate, treat it as such.
Rule of Thumb: Treat your rental as though it were your own.

Normal Wear and Tear items will be the responsibilty of your Landlord. Repairs due to negligence or improper usage are the responsibility of the Renter. As a Renter, if you see an item that needs to be fixed, you should report it to your Landlord immediately. Items that go unfixed can turn into huge future problems. Your Landlord should fix problems that can cause health concerns in a timely manner. They are not required to fix problems caused by the renter. If a Landlord repairs an item that was due to Renter's negligence or misuse, they may charge you for the cost.
Rule of Thumb: Report repairs immediately before they get worse.

Landlords always have the right to inspect their rentals. Most states require a specific notice prior to entry. It is unlawful for a Landlord to enter without consensus, unless there's an emergency or hazard. Documented illegal activity may warrant inspection without notice. The most common reasons for entry are: Repairs, Drug Activity, Real Estate Dealings, City Inspectors, and/or Adherence to House Rules.
Rule of Thumb: Cooperate with your Landlord. Never deny access, as it may lead to eviction.

Renter beware! Only rent with a roommate if you can completely trust them. Many times it may be difficult to find a trustworthy roommate. Before signing the dotted line, determine your potential roommate's financial status, and know their background. You are responsible in the event that your Roommate fails to pay rent, or breaks House Rules. Their actions can and will affect your credit and life a great deal.
Rule of Thumb: Only rent with a Roommate if you are fully ready to take on their responsibilities.

This is a fancy word that refers to your Lease Agreement. It means that if you or your Landlord were to neglect or breach a part of the contract, the rest of the contract would still be in effect. For example: If you were to pay rent late, this would be a breach of contract because you have broken the contract. This does not mean you can avoid your other commitments made within the agreement. They would still be in full effect.
Rule of Thumb: You are responsible for the entire contract even if part of it has been breached.

Smoking is a privilege and not a right. Some states have laws and clean air acts that regulate smoking. In most cases, if you are renting in a smoke-free building, Renters are not allowed to smoke anywhere on the property. Smoke residue is difficult to remove, but very easy to detect. If you smoke in your rental, you may be evicted and charged for removal cost.
Rule of Thumb: Kick the habit!

• Alabama
• Alaska
• Arizona
• Arkansas
• California
• Colorado
• Connecticut
• Delaware
• District of Columbia
• Florida
• Georgia
• Hawaii
• Idaho
• Illinois
• Indiana
• Iowa
• Kansas
• Kentucky
• Louisiana
• Maine
• Maryland
• Massachusetts
• Michigan
• Minnesota
• Mississippi
• Missouri
• Montana
• Nebraska
• Nevada
• New Hampshire
• New Jersey
• New Mexico
• New York
• North Carolina
• North Dakota
• Ohio
• Oklahoma
• Oregon
• Pennsylvania
• Rhode Island
• South Carolina
• South Dakota
• Tennessee
• Texas
• Utah
• Vermont
• Virginia
• Washington
• West Virginia
• Wisconsin
• Wyoming

• Alabama: Ala. Code §§ 35-9-1 to -100
• Alaska: Alaska Stat. §§ 34.03.010 to .380
• Arizona: Ariz. Rev. Stat. Ann. §§ 12-1171 to -1183; §§ 33-1301 to -1381, -301 to -381
• Arkansas: Ark. Code Ann. §§ 18-16-101 to -306, -501 to -508
• California: Cal. [Civ.] Code §§ 1925 to 1954, 1961 to 1962.7
• Colorado: Colo. Rev. Stat. §§ 38-12-101 to -104, -301 to -302; 13-40-101 to -123
• Connecticut: Conn. Gen. Stat. Ann. §§ 47a-1 to -74
• Delaware: Del. Code. Ann. tit. 25, §§ 5101 to 5907
• District of Columbia: D.C. Code Ann. §§ 42-3201 to -3610; D.C. Mun. Regs., tit. 14, §§ 300 to 311
• Florida: Fla. Stat. Ann. §§ 83.40 to .682
• Georgia: Ga. Code Ann. §§ 44-7-1 to -81
• Hawaii: Haw. Rev. Stat. §§ 521-1 to -78
• Idaho: Idaho Code §§ 6-201 to -324 and §§ 55-208 to -308
• Illinois: 735 Ill. Comp. Stat. §§ 5/9-201 to 321 and 765 Ill. Comp. Stat. §§ 705/0.01 to 742/30
• Indiana: Ind. Code Ann. §§ 32-31-1-1 to -8-6
• Iowa: Iowa Code Ann. §§ 562A.1 to .36
• Kansas: Kan. Stat. Ann. §§ 58-2501 to -2573
• Kentucky: Ky. Rev. Stat. Ann. §§ 383.010 to .715
• Louisiana: La. Rev. Stat. Ann. §§ 9:3251 to -:3261; La. Civ. Code Ann. art. 2668 to 2729
• Maine: Me. Rev. Stat. Ann. tit. 14, §§ 6001 to 6046
• Maryland: Md. Code Ann. [Real Prop.] §§ 8-101 to -604
• Massachusetts: Mass. Gen. Laws Ann. ch. 186 §§ 1 to 22
• Michigan: Mich. Comp. Laws §§ 554.131 to .201, .601 to .641
• Minnesota: Minn. Stat. Ann. §§ 504B.001 to .471
• Mississippi: Miss. Code Ann. §§ 89-7-1 to -8-27
• Missouri: Mo. Rev. Stat. §§ 441.005 to .880; and §§ 535.150 to .300
• Montana: Mont. Code Ann. §§ 70-24-101 to -26-110
• Nebraska: Neb. Rev. Stat. §§ 76-1401 to -1449
• Nevada: Nev. Rev. Stat. Ann. §§ 118A.010 to .520; 40.215 to .280
• New Hampshire: N.H. Rev. Stat. Ann. §§ 540:1 to 540:29; 540-A:1 to 540-A:8
• New Jersey: N.J. Stat. Ann. §§ 46:8-1 to -50; 2A:42-1 to 42-96
• New Mexico: N.M. Stat. Ann. §§ 47-8-1 to -51
• New York: N.Y. Real Prop. Law §§ 220 to 238; Real Prop. Acts §§ 701 to 853; Mult. Dwell. Law (all); Mult. Res. Law (all); Gen. Oblig. Law §§ 7-103 to -108
• North Carolina: N.C. Gen. Stat. §§ 42-1 to 42-14.2; 42-25.6 to 42-76
• North Dakota: N.D. Cent. Code §§ 47-16-01 to -41
• Ohio: Ohio Rev. Code Ann. §§ 5321.01 to .19
• Oklahoma: Okla. Stat. Ann. tit. 41, §§ 101 to 136
• Oregon: Or. Rev. Stat. §§ 90.100 to 91.225
• Pennsylvania: 68 Pa. Cons. Stat. Ann. §§ 250.101 to .510-B, §§ 399.1 to .18
• Rhode Island: R.I. Gen. Laws §§ 34-18-1 to -57
• South Carolina: S.C. Code Ann. §§ 27-40-10 to -940
• South Dakota: S.D. Codified Laws Ann. §§ 43-32-1 to -30
• Tennessee: Tenn. Code Ann. §§ 66-28-101 to -521
• Texas: Tex. Prop. Code Ann. §§ 91.001 to 92.354
• Utah: Utah Code Ann. §§ 57-17-1 to -5, -22-1 to -6
• Vermont: Vt. Stat Ann. tit. 9, §§ 4451 to 4468
• Virginia: Va. Code Ann. §§ 55-218.1 to -248.40
• Washington: Wash. Rev. Code Ann. §§ 59.04.010 to .900, .18.010 to .911
• West Virginia: W. Va. Code §§ 37-6-1 to -30
• Wisconsin: Wis. Stat. Ann. §§ 704.01-.50; Wis. Admin. Code 134.01 to .10
• Wyoming: Wyo. Stat. §§ 1-21-1201 to -1211; 34-2-128 to -129

• Alabama: No statute
• Alaska: 24 hours
• Arizona: Two days
• Arkansas: No statute
• California: 24 hours; 48 hours for initial move-out inspection
• Colorado: No statute
• Connecticut: Reasonable notice
• Delaware: Two days
• District of Columbia: No statute
• Florida: 12 hours
• Georgia: No statute
• Hawaii: Two days
• Idaho: No statute
• Illinois: No statute
• Indiana: No statute
• Iowa: 24 hours
• Kansas: Reasonable notice
• Kentucky: Two days
• Louisiana: No statute
• Maine: 24 hours
• Maryland: No statute
• Massachusetts: No notice specified
• Michigan: No statute
• Minnesota: Reasonable notice
• Mississippi: No statute
• Missouri: No statute
• Montana: 24 hours
• Nebraska: One day
• Nevada: 24 hours
• New Hampshire: Notice that is adequate under the circumstances
• New Jersey: No statute
• New Mexico: 24 hours
• New York: No statute
• North Carolina: No statute
• North Dakota: Reasonable notice
• Ohio: 24 hours
• Oklahoma: One day
• Oregon: 24 hours
• Pennsylvania: No statute
• Rhode Island: Two days
• South Carolina: 24 hours
• South Dakota: No statute
• Tennessee: No notice specified
• Texas: No statute
• Utah: 24 hours
• Vermont: 48 hours
• Virginia: 24 hours
• Washington: Two days
• West Virginia: No statute
• Wisconsin: Advance notice
• Wyoming: No statute

If you are not able to finish out your Lease, some Landlords will allow you to re-assign your lease to a new tenant. Most Landlords prohibit Subletting, but on occasion you may have the option.
Rule of Thumb: Make sure your Landlord approves of the new tenant.

If you are in Unlawful Detainter, your Landlord can collect Treble Damages for each day you occupy the rental without permission. The purpose is to help the Landlord re-coop their cost from evictions, non-payment, and loss of rent. If you receive an eviction, you should resolve the concern or move out within the time-frame stated on the eviction, otherwise you may end up paying an absorbent amount of money that will haunt you until paid.
Rule of Thumb: If served an Eviction Notice, resolve it or move immediately.

This means you are illegally occupying the rental. This occurs after you have received an Eviction Notice and have failed to move or comply. Once you are in Unlawful-Detainer and have judgment, you can be forcefully removed by the police. You and your belongings will be put out on the street and it will affect your credit.
Rule of Thumb: Comply with ALL notices in a timely manner.

This refers to a rental that is empty or not currently rented.

Bad idea! Some Renters believe they can get their Landlord to perform or comply by With-holding Rent, when in fact, you are creating a breach of contract, which may force an Eviction and cause additional legal fees. If you are having a problem with your Landlord, you can report them to the Rental Protection Agency®. If your Landlord is unwilling to comply click here to file a complaint.
Rule of Thumb: Never With-hold Rent, as it will put you at fault.