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Frequently Asked Questions

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Landlord-Tenant Law FAQs

Landlords are required to ensure that the rental property meets all local health, safety, and housing codes. This includes repairing structural issues, maintaining plumbing, heating, and electrical systems, and ensuring the property is fit for habitation.

Depending on the jurisdiction, tenants may have the right to withhold rent, pay for the repair and deduct it from the rent, or file a complaint. Consulting a lawyer to understand local laws is recommended.

Landlords must follow specific legal procedures for eviction, starting with providing proper notice, filing an eviction lawsuit, and obtaining a court order if the tenant does not vacate voluntarily.

Notice requirements for rent increases vary by jurisdiction. Generally, landlords must provide written notice 30 to 90 days in advance, depending on the length of the lease.

Tenants should document the incident and review their lease terms. Unauthorized entry by a landlord may violate tenant privacy rights and local landlord-tenant laws.

Landlords can only charge for cleaning if the tenant leaves the unit in an unsanitary condition that goes beyond normal wear and tear.

Landlords must return the security deposit within a specific time frame, typically 14-30 days, and provide an itemized list of deductions if any part of the deposit is withheld.

Landlords may have a no-pet policy unless the pet is a service animal or emotional support animal, which is protected under federal and state laws.

A sale does not terminate a tenant’s lease. The new owner must honor the existing rental agreement.

Landlords must follow local laws, which often require notifying the tenant and giving them a specific amount of time to reclaim their belongings before disposal or sale.

Small Claims Court FAQs

Common cases include unpaid rent, security deposit disputes, property damage, breach of contract, and personal loans.

Yes, each jurisdiction sets a maximum monetary limit for small claims cases, typically ranging from $5,000 to $10,000.

Small claims court is designed for self-representation. However, legal advice from a qualified attorney can strengthen your case.

Evidence may include signed contracts, photos, emails, receipts, witness statements, and any documentation that supports your claim.

Jurisdictional rules apply, and you may need to file the case in the defendant’s state or where the dispute occurred.

If the defendant fails to appear, the court may issue a default judgment in favor of the plaintiff.

The statute of limitations for filing depends on the type of claim, ranging from 1 to 6 years in most states.

Appeals are generally limited and must be filed within a specific time frame after the judgment. Rules vary by jurisdiction.

The court does not enforce payment. You may need to take additional steps, such as wage garnishment or lien placement, to collect the judgment.

Yes, parties are encouraged to resolve disputes through negotiation or mediation before filing a claim.