As a tenant, it’s important to be aware of your rights and responsibilities. One common concern among tenants and renters that arises during a lease agreement is whether your landlord is abiding by the law. In this blog, DJP Solicitors explore some common scenarios where a landlord may potentially be breaking the law and provide guidance on how to address these issues.
Failure to provide a safe living space
One fundamental responsibility of a landlord is to provide a safe and habitable living environment for tenants. This includes ensuring that the property meets health and safety standards, such as proper sanitation, functioning utilities, and structural integrity. If you notice any hazardous conditions or significant maintenance issues that compromise your safety, it is essential to document the problems and notify your landlord promptly.
Illegal discrimination
Landlords are prohibited from discriminating against tenants based on characteristics such as race, colour, religion, national origin, sex, familial status, or disability. If you believe you have been subjected to discriminatory practices during the rental process or while occupying the property, you may want to consult local fair housing laws or seek legal advice.
Unauthorised entry or invasion of privacy
Your landlord must respect your right to privacy and cannot enter your rental unit without proper notice, except in emergencies. Typically, landlords are required to give advance notice, usually 24 to 48 hours, before entering your premises for non-emergency reasons. If your landlord repeatedly enters your space without permission or reasonable notice, it may be a violation of your privacy rights.
Illegal eviction practices
Evictions must follow legal procedures and cannot be carried out arbitrarily or without proper notice. Your landlord must provide written notice, usually in the form of a notice to quit or a termination notice, and follow specific steps outlined by local laws. If you receive an eviction notice that you believe is unjust or unlawful, seek legal advice to understand your rights and potential courses of action.
Failure to return security deposit
When you move out of a rental property, your landlord is generally required to return your security deposit within a specified timeframe, minus any legitimate deductions. If your landlord fails to return your deposit or provides an inadequate explanation for the deductions, you may have grounds to challenge their actions and potentially take legal action to recover your deposit.
Whether you’ve experienced a breach of contract, have been served an eviction notice, would like to evict a tenant, or need legal advice on the process, DJP solicitors are pleased to help. With our wealth of experience, we offer expert legal advice from beginning to end, prioritising clarity and thoroughness. Contact us today to speak to one of our lawyers.
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