Hey there, fellow landlords! 👋 It’s important for all of us to stay current on the constant changes to tenant management laws. As responsible property owners, we need to ensure we’re operating within the boundaries set by these laws, not only to avoid legal action, but also to provide a safe and comfortable home for our tenants. In this blog, we’ll discuss some recent changes in tenant management laws that every landlord should know about.

Eviction Moratorium

One of the most significant changes that have occurred in tenant management laws is the eviction moratorium. This means that landlords cannot evict their tenants during the COVID-19 pandemic. The government has enacted this moratorium to protect tenants from becoming homeless during this difficult time. This law is ever-changing, so landlords should keep themselves up to date with the latest updates.

A cartoon image of a landlord arguing with a tenant over eviction with a red "STOP" sign over it.

Security Deposits

Security deposits are important for landlords to have, as they serve as a backup plan to separate any damages made by the tenants from the rent collected. Different states have various rules on how much you can ask as security deposit. In some states, providing the bank account details and return schedules are now mandatory. Failure to do so may result in penalties. Be aware of your state-specific laws to avoid losing out on your deposit funds.

A photo of a blank check with the word SECURITY DEPOSIT written on it.

Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors

Failure to have smoke detectors installed in your units can lead to legal trouble. This is because smoke detectors are vital in saving people’s lives in a fire break-out. With the latest changes to safety laws, landlords must now install carbon monoxide detectors since this gas is lethal and odorless. Keep in mind that the requirements may have changed from when you last installed them, so keep yourself up-to-date with the latest changes to be on the safe side.

A photo of a smoke and carbon monoxide detector installed in the kitchen of a house, with the message "Safety First!" on top.

Rental Application

Landlords cannot discriminate against applicants based on gender, race, sexual orientation, or religion. When advertising your rental unit, ensure that your ads do not discriminate against any particular group. Most states also require landlords to ask for government identification and run a background check on prospective tenants. Make sure you have a clear understanding of these requirements in your state.

A photo of a rental application form with the words "Equal Opportunity Housing" written on it.

Service and Emotional Support Animals

Landlords may not deny housing for tenants who have service or emotional support animals, despite a ‘no pets’ policy. This is especially when pets serve as therapeutic companions to the tenant. Emotional support animals may not need to be trained to perform tasks but are still legally protected under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Although landlords are allowed to ask for a doctor’s note to identify the disabilities and evaluate any risk that the animal poses to the safety of others, you cannot deny a tenant housing because they have a service animal or emotional support animal.

A photo of a person with a service animal, with the message "Support the Animal, Support the Person" on the side.

Remember, as well as keeping up-to-date with changes in tenant management laws, always ensure that you fully understand them before implementing them. Following the tips and guidelines above helps you avoid legal trouble and provides a better life for your tenants. Stay safe and keep the housing game moving forward. 🤞

A family of tenants happily unpacking boxes in their new home, with the message "Safe Housing, Happy Families" on top.