Oasis at Riverlights

A Guide to Renters Rights: Protecting Yourself as a Tenant

A Guide to Renters Rights: Protecting Yourself as a Tenant

A Guide to Renters Rights: Protecting Yourself as a Tenant

 

As a renter, it's important to know your rights. When you rent an apartment, you have certain legal protections and obligations that must be honored by both parties. Unfortunately, not all landlords are aware of the law or adhere to their obligations. But knowledge is power—and understanding your rights can help protect you in the long run. Let's take a look at some of the key points to know when it comes to renters rights.


Security Deposits

In almost all states, landlords are required to return security deposits within a certain time frame following move-out. This varies from state-to-state, but usually ranges between 14–45 days after the tenant has vacated the premises. You should also be aware that there may be specific rules regarding how much of a security deposit can be charged and what types of damages (if any) can be deducted from that deposit before it is returned.

Habitability

When you rent an apartment, your landlord is responsible for providing and maintaining habitable living conditions for you and your family throughout the duration of your lease agreement. This includes things like running water, heat, electricity, locks on all doors/windows, hot water heater and heating system maintenance (depending on climate), smoke detectors, etc. If any of these items become faulty or broken during your stay in the rental unit, it's important that you contact your landlord immediately so they can arrange for repairs or replacements in a timely manner.

Illegal Discrimination

It is illegal for landlords to discriminate against tenants based on race, color, religion, national origin, sex/gender identity/expression or sexual orientation. Additionally, most states also have laws prohibiting discrimination against families with children as well as people with disabilities/accessibility needs who require reasonable accommodation requests in order to live comfortably in their rental units. It's important to understand these laws ahead of time so that if you ever experience discriminatory behavior from a landlord or property manager during your search for apartments for rent in Wilmington NC—or anywhere else—you will know what steps need to be taken next in order to protect yourself legally and seek justice if needed.

 

Conclusion

Renting an apartment can seem intimidating at first—especially when it comes to understanding complex legal issues like renters’ rights and obligations—but once you familiarize yourself with these key points outlined above you'll have more confidence as a tenant! At Oasis at Riverlights we pride ourselves on providing our residents with quality apartments and excellent customer service—so don't hesitate to reach out if you have any questions about renting with us today! We look forward to hearing from you soon!

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