Tenant rights by state

Renter rights by state: deposits, repairs, entry, rent and eviction

What are my rights in ?

Deposits, entry, rent increases, late fees. In plain English.

Why this matters

The text comes at lunch: coming by at 3 to show the place.

You're at work. Your laundry is on the bed. Can they just walk in?

In most states, not without notice.

But nobody hands you the rules when you sign. Your landlord knows them. You find them out the hard way, one awkward afternoon at a time.

Here are the rules, for where you live, in words you'd actually use.

Almost everywhere

Six rights you already have

01
A livable home (warranty of habitability)
Your landlord must keep the rental safe and livable - working heat, plumbing, hot water, and no serious hazards. This duty generally can't be waived by an 'as-is' clause.
02
Notice before entry
Except in genuine emergencies, a landlord must usually give advance notice and enter only at reasonable times - not whenever they please.
03
Your security deposit back
Deposits secure against damage and unpaid rent - not normal wear and tear. You're entitled to a timely return and an itemized statement of any deductions.
04
Protection from retaliation
A landlord generally cannot evict you, raise your rent, or cut services to punish you for requesting repairs or asserting your legal rights.
05
Due process before eviction
A landlord must go through the proper court process to evict you. 'Self-help' tactics - changing locks, removing belongings, shutting off utilities - are illegal in most states.
06
Freedom from housing discrimination
Under the federal Fair Housing Act, you can't be denied housing or treated differently based on race, color, religion, national origin, sex, disability, or familial status. Many states and cities add further protections.

Big cities