Fair Housing Law Landlord Responsibilities Federal fair housing laws in the United States, primarily governed by the Fair Housing Act ( FHA ) of 1968, aim to ensure equal access to housing and prohibit discrimination in housing-related activities. The FHA applies to most housing types, including rentals, sales, and financing, with limited exceptions (e.g., certain owner-occupied buildings with four or fewer units or single-family homes sold without a broker). Here’s a summary of the key points and landlord responsibilities:

A Stipulation is used to resolve disputes or address issues without going to court. Especially helpful with overdue rent situations.

Many landlords overlook late and partial rent payment. Neither of these practices are good but it could be worse than you think.

Veteran real estate investors almost never sell their rental property. Instead they borrow against the equity, that's tax free cash!

Rental investors should never pay attention to comps because investors do not buy buildings, they buy return on investment (ROI)

The rules governing security deposits for residential leases are primarily found Chapter 83. Here are the key points:

My Tenant Won’t Let Me Enter the Rental Property What Are My Rights?

There are three federal laws that regulate and define what a service dog is: The Americans with Disabilities Act, the Fair Housing Act and the Air Carrier Access Act. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) defines service dogs as “trained to do work or perform tasks for people with disabilities”. Under the ADA, individuals with a disability include someone with a physical or mental health impairment that limits their life.

Emotional Support Animals

Tenants who have a bad rental history or a criminal history need a place to live just like everyone else. These characters know they can’t rent from large, well managed apartment communities because they check references. So, who are they looking for? They are looking for a nice, private landlord who thinks he’s is a good judge of character.

Our eviction business has seen a sizeable increase in the number of squatters moving into empty rental units. The stories are similar. The landlord discovers strangers have taken up residency in their rental home. Naturally, they are angry and worried. Will they become violent? Will they destroy the house? How do I get them out?

Successful landlords know you make money in the rental business when you select your tenant. If you fail to do your due diligence it can cost you thousands.

Landlords are prohibited from requiring tenants to pay rent in excess of what is authorized by HAP contracts. The Landlord may not demand or accept any rent from the tenant in excess of the contracted.

Tenant Screening is without a doubt, one of the most critical steps in the property management process. A thorough and meticulous screening process can mean the difference between a smooth tenancy and a rental nightmare.

Fair Housing: Persons with Disabilities What are Reasonable Accommodations? Source

Business Strategies: 7 Super Powers of Land Trusts in Real Estate Asset Protection Toby Mathis Esq

The Fair Housing Act includes provisions that encourage people to file complaints. Plus, each year, grants are allocated to fund a program of "Testers" who pretend to be looking for housing. Watch to video.

Your tenant has moved out. While your priority is to clean and paint and get the unit rented, there are a number of things which good business practice suggests -- and some which State law demands.

Your tenant left your rental apartment trashed, damaged and owing you money! Your tenant lied and took advantage of you. He may have skipped or you may have evicted him. In either case, he damaged your rental and cost you money! What do you do?