Legal Issues With Roommates

It's important to understand the different legal buzz words that apply to tenants and roommates.

Roommates: Renting a Place With Others

Legal obligations and responsibilities of roommates

When a Roommate Wants to Leave Early

When co-tenants split, there can be serious consequences beyond hurt feelings.

Adding a New Roommate

Most landlords will insist that the new roommate become a co-tenant rather than a subtenant.

Who Is a Tenant?

Who is a tenant?    

What's the Difference Between a Tenant and a Subtenant?

What’s the difference between a tenant and a subtenant?

Adding a Roommate to the Lease or Rental Agreement

Get your landlord's approval before a new person moves in.

Rent Payment History on Your Credit Report? What Tenants Need to Know

New credit reporting practice tracks rent delinquencies and non-payment of rent.

Legal and Illegal Reasons Landlords May Turn Rental Applicants Down

What a landlord can and cannot ask you when you're applying for a rental.

Your Credit Report Can Make or Break Your Application

A poor credit score can affect your ability to rent the place you want.

Landlord-Tenant Agreement Regarding Tenant’s Credit Report and Fees

Get the purpose and use of credit check fees in writing.

Sample Apartment-Hunting Note

How to get the word out on your search for a new apartment

Ten Tips for Tenants

Know your rights when you rent a house or apartment.

Tips for Homeowners About to Be Renters After a Disaster

Homeowners displaced after a disaster such as a fire, flood, or hurricane may find themselves in the market for a rental.

How to Find a Good Apartment

The best ways to go about finding a rental in the neighborhood you want

How to Impress Prospective Landlords

Tips for getting a landlord to accept you as a tenant

Difference Between Renting from an Individual Landlord and a Property Management Firm?

Type of landlord may make a big difference in your renting experience.

How to Check Out a Landlord or Property Manager

Before you choose a place to rent, find out what it’s like to rent deal with the landlord or manager. Make sure you don't forget to screen them.

Signing a Lease or Rental Agreement FAQ

Learn about the laws that cover security deposits, rent increases, and late fees.

Protect Your Security Deposit When You Move In

Record the condition of the property to safeguard your security deposit.

Chart: Security Deposit Limits, State by State

Learn how much security deposit a landlord can charge in your state.

Renting a House or Apartment With Roommates

Learn to avoid disputes among roommates or with the landlord.

Tenant Rights Against Sexual Orientation or Gender Identity Discrimination

Know your renter's rights if a landlord won't rent to you because you are gay, lesbian, or transgender.

Disabled Renters' Housing Rights

If you have a disability, you should understand the laws when you rent a house or apartment.

Landlord-Tenant Statutes, State-by-State

To help you research your state laws, here's a listing of landlord-tenant codes for every state.

Hurricane Irene Ruined My Vacation Rental: Do I Get My Money Back?

You've paid for the rental, but Mother Nature steps in. What now?

Typical Provisions in Leases and Rental Agreements

Key terms you can expect to see in a lease or rental agreement.