Where America Goes for Insurance Rate Information
| Home | Auto Insurance | Condo Insurance | Health Insurance | Home Insurance | Life Insurance | Renters Insurance |
When it comes down to it, landlords are business people, and not always the most scrupulous ones, at that. Some landlords will stoop to unbelievable lows to squeeze every last dime out of their tenants. If you rent your home, you could easily fall victim to these underhanded tactics if you’re not careful. What’s the best defense? It’s simple: a sound knowledge of your rights as a tenant and a few preventive measures.
In some leases, you might find clauses that hold tenants responsible for fixing broken appliances. By law, these clauses are not enforceable because it is the landlord’s job to handle such repairs. If you run into trouble trying to get repairs done, try submitting all of your repair requests in writing, complete with the date and time. If the landlord has not acted after the request and a few phone calls, hire a repair person yourself. You can then forward the bill to your landlord. Alternatively, you can refuse to pay all or part of next month’s rent until the repairs are taken care of.
With some rentals, landlords try to bilk you in additional rent if you add a roommate or have a houseguest for an extended period of time. In actuality, federal law prohibits this practice. Naturally, this does have its limits. The law is usually two people per bedroom, plus an additional person. In other words, you can legally accommodate up to three people in your one-bedroom apartment before your landlord can increase your rent or evict you. If you are really distrustful of your landlord, renter’s insurance would be a good idea. It will pay for any liability expenses and legal fees in the event that you take one of your battles to court.
Landlords are notorious for finding every little dent and blemish in your rental upon move-out. For these minor damages, that you may or may not have caused, they can deduct hefty amounts from your security deposit. To keep yourself safe, do a thorough walk-through before you move in, and note and photograph all damages with the landlord. When you move out, then, you will be well-equipped to dispute any damages you are charged for that you did not cause.
|
 |
