Choosing to rent a home or apartment is a major decision in anyone’s life. Renting is an excellent option for those individuals who are not ready to purchase their own home or simply don’t wish to. Renters Insurance is an absolute necessity to cover damaged property in any unlucky event that may occur.
Unfortunately, not everyone is up to date on the rights that they hold as renters. Before you sign any lease, make sure you are aware of the rights that you have in case any conflict may arise between you and your landlord or another tenant. Here’s some that any renter should be aware of:
- Many states limit the amount landlords can charge for security deposits.
- A landlord should make necessary repairs and perform maintenance tasks in a timely fashion, or include a provision in the lease stating that tenants can order repairs and deduct the cost from rent.
- A landlord must give prior notice (typically 24 hours) before entering your premises and can normally only do so to make repairs or in case of an emergency.
- Illegal provisions in a rental agreement (provisions counter to state law) are usually not enforceable in court.
- If a landlord has violated important terms related to health, safety, or necessary repairs, you might have a legal right to break your lease.
- If you have to break a long-term lease, in most states landlords are required to search for a new tenant as soon as possible rather than charging the tenant for the full duration of the lease.
- Most states require landlords to return refundable portions of a security deposit within 14 to 30 days after the tenant has vacated the premises, even in the case of eviction.
- Landlords usually can’t legally seize a tenant’s property for nonpayment of rent or any other reason, except in the case of abandonment as defined by law.
- Landlords are legally prohibited from evicting tenants as retaliation for action a tenant takes related to a perceived landlord violation.
- A landlord cannot legally change the locks, shut off (or cause to have shut off) your utilities, or evict you without notice; eviction requires a court order.
So if you decide to rent, make sure to do your homework first. Chose the right Connecticut renters insurance policy that best suits you and take the necessary precautions to insure a successful and enjoyable rental experience with your landlord.