Account
Get our app
Account Sign up Sign in

Tenants

Protect your rights as a renter or roommate. We're here to help.

Nyema J.
Rocket Lawyer member since 2015

Tenants FAQs

  • What does my landlord have to repair?

    Your Lease Agreement will typically outline what repairs your landlord is responsible for. If nothing is specified, you may be able to assume that the landlord is responsible for wear-and-tear or maintenance repairs, like fixing a roof or the septic system. That said, any damage caused by you may also be up to you to repair. If your landlord is refusing to repair an issue that you believe is their responsibility, you should talk to a lawyer.

  • How much notice do I have to give before moving out?

    If you are not currently in an active Lease Agreement, you can usually move out after giving 30 days' notice. If your lease is still active, check the terms of your rental agreement to see the notice requirements. You may be required to pay the rest of your lease obligation even if you move out. A Notice of Intent to Move can help you notify your landlord. If you are planning to break your lease early, you might also consider getting your landlord's approval to sublet rather than paying the remaining rent.

  • How can I get my security deposit refunded?

    If there is no apparent damage to the property, getting a security deposit refund may not be a challenge. However, if the rental unit is not returned in the condition that your landlord is expecting (minus general wear and tear), you may have a bit more difficulty. Depending on your lease details and on state law, your landlord could have anywhere between 14 and 60 days to return your deposit or send you a letter outlining the cost of damages. While your landlord is typically entitled to keep some or all of the deposit to offset unpaid rent or to make repairs, they are not allowed to keep it for general wear and tear damage to the property, such as faded paint or slightly worn carpet. If you feel that your landlord is withholding your refund unjustly, talk to a lawyer.

  • Can my landlord enter my apartment?

    While the landlord may own the property, you do have rights as a renter. Often, state laws will determine the reasons that a landlord may enter your apartment, and they usually include: making repairs, performing inspections, or showing the property to prospective tenants. Your lease may outline additional reasons.

    Outside of emergencies like flooding, fire or a threat to life or property, a landlord must provide notice before entering your rental unit. While the notice period can vary based on the location and the reason for entry, it is typically 24 hours. If you feel that your landlord has violated the law or the terms of your lease agreement, it is best to speak with a lawyer.

  • What's the difference between leasing an apartment and renting an apartment?

    A lease is merely the legal document outlining the terms of an apartment rental. However, in some cases, "rental agreement" may be used to refer to an agreement that covers a shorter period of time, such as a month-long vacation rental, whereas "lease" more commonly is used to refer to a term of 12 months or longer.

Ask a lawyer

Our network attorneys are here for you.
Characters remaining: 600
Rocket Lawyer Network Attorneys

Legal guides

  1. Tenants: How To Handle a Rent Increase
    3 min read
  2. Landlord Foreclosure Questions Answered
    3 min read
  3. Legal Guide To Foreclosures and Evictions
    4 min read
  4. Does Renters Insurance Cover Belongings When Moving?
    3 min read
  5. Can You Be Evicted by Your Relatives?
    2 min read
  6. Can Tenants Hire Contractors To Improve Their Rental?
    4 min read
  7. Can Using a Short-Term Rental App Make You a Landlord?
    3 min read
  8. What Happens If You Lose an Eviction Lawsuit?
    2 min read
  9. Breaking a Lease During COVID-19: Remote Work and Relocation
    3 min read
  10. Apartment Renting 101: What Every First Time Renter Should Know
    4 min read
  11. Breaking a Lease
    3 min read
  12. Tenant Rights 101: What Tenants Need to Know
    2 min read
  13. Do I Need a Tenant Lawyer?
    2 min read
  14. Bad Landlord? Your Legal Options
    2 min read
  15. Legal Guide to Constructive and Wrongful Evictions
    2 min read
  16. How to Prepare Young Adults For Life's Legal Realities
    3 min read
  17. How To Prepare Your Home for a Disaster
    3 min read
  18. Is It Legal To Restrict Displays on Property?
    3 min read
  19. How To Set Boundaries in Co-Living Situations
    3 min read
  20. Service and Emotional Support Animals: Laws and Rights
    4 min read
  21. What To Document for Move-In or Move-Out Walk-Throughs
    3 min read
  22. Moving in With Strangers: What To Put in Writing
    5 min read
  23. How to Evict Someone Who Lives With You
    2 min read
  24. Types of Property Insurance
    3 min read
  25. How To Make Sure To Get Your Security Deposit Refunded
    3 min read
  26. Top 6 Tips to Prevent and Report Mail Theft During the Holidays
    5 min read

Looking for something else?