Renters' & Tenants' Rights

Security Deposit Limits and Deadlines in Your State

Learn about your state's laws.

Get Your Security Deposit Back

Steps to take before and after you move out to ensure your landlord returns your security deposit.

Signing a Lease or Rental Agreement FAQ

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

Typical Provisions in Leases and Rental Agreements

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

Grace Periods and Rent Due Dates

Rent is legally due on the date specified in your agreement (usually the first of the month), and in the form of payment (usually check) that the landlord requires.

What to Do and Not to Do If You Can't Pay Rent on Time

Here are some dos and don'ts of paying rent late—including how to negotiate a partial or delayed rent payment.

Renting a House or Apartment With Roommates

One cotenant's negative behavior—not paying the rent, for example—can affect everyone's tenancy.

What Kind of Housing Discrimination Is Illegal?

Federal law prohibits discrimination based on many factors, including race, religion, national origin, familial status, disability, and sex.

Renters' Rights to Minor Repairs

How to get landlords to keep their end of the maintenance bargain.

Mold in Rentals: Landlord Liability, Responsibility, and Prevention

Learn about mold in rental units: Your landlord's liability for mold problems, how to get rid of mold, and how to prevent mold in the first place.

Landlord Responsibility for Bed Bugs

What tenants should know about landlords' responsibility for bed bugs in rental properties.