AnswerLaws & local guides
What is the implied warranty of habitability?
Many jurisdictions impose duties to maintain rental housing in legally required living conditions. The precise standards, remedies and procedures...
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AnswerMaintenance & repairs
What maintenance is a landlord responsible for?
Responsibilities depend on applicable law, the agreement and the cause of the issue. Identify duties for required living conditions and systems...
AnswerLeases & renewals
What makes a lease clause unenforceable?
A lease clause may be unenforceable when it conflicts with mandatory law or fails other applicable legal requirements. A signature or an...
AnswerMove-outs & deposits
What notice do I have to give before eviction?
The required notice depends on the grounds, tenancy, property location and applicable programs. Do not choose a generic number of days until those...
AnswerAdvertising & listings
What photos should a rental listing include?
Show the actual exterior, main living areas, kitchen, bathrooms, bedrooms and relevant amenities. Use current, clear photos that help renters...
AnswerMaintenance & repairs
What preventive maintenance should landlords schedule?
Use a recurring schedule based on the property's equipment, manufacturer guidance, local requirements and observed condition. Pair scheduled tasks...
AnswerLaws & local guides
What privacy rights do tenants have?
Resident privacy involves lawful entry, appropriate handling of personal information and reasonable limits on access or disclosure. The specific...
AnswerTenant screening
What questions can't I ask a rental applicant?
Keep application questions relevant to the tenancy and permitted in the property jurisdiction. Avoid questions about protected characteristics,...
AnswerLaws & local guides
What questions violate fair housing rules?
Avoid questions or decision criteria tied to protected characteristics or unlawful proxies. Focus inquiries on lawful tenancy requirements and...
AnswerAccounting & taxes
What records should landlords keep and for how long?
Keep agreements, condition evidence, payment records, expense documents, asset history and relevant communications in an organized,...
AnswerGetting started
What should a first-time landlord know before renting out a property?
Before accepting a tenant, confirm the rental is ready and permitted, establish a consistent application process, prepare the lease and...
AnswerLeases & renewals
What should be in a lease agreement?
A lease should accurately describe the parties, rental, term, payment obligations and operating arrangements, together with required provisions...