Landlord Rights and Obligations Lawyers
LegalMatch Law Library Managing Editor, Ken LaMance, Attorney at Law 
What Are a Landlord's Rights In a Lease?
A landlord has the right to:
- be paid rent on time
- screen and choose the tenants to reside on the property
- collect a security deposit from tenants
- determine the terms of the lease (e.g. pets, rent, rules, etc.)
- enter the unit in emergencies that threaten the property
- enter the unit to make scheduled or necessary repairs
- evict tenants who do not pay rent, destroy or severely damage the property, or break the law or agreed rules
What Are a Landlord's Obligations In a Lease?
A landlord is obligated to:
- maintain all units in a hospitable condition
- return the security deposit at the termination of the lease, minus any costs to repair or clean the unit
- collect only the rent and any applicable penalties
- provide warnings and notice of late rent or eviction
- respect the privacy of all tenants
- ignore race, ethnicity, religion, sex, or sexual orientation in choosing tenants
Do I Need a Lawyer if I'm a Landlord?
Landlord-tenant law is under constant change and the above tips are just a few of the steps your can take to make your life as a landlord easier. An experienced real estate lawyer will know the law in your area and can answer questions you may have about how to deal with situations you face.
Consult a Lawyer - Present Your Case Now!
Last Modified: 07-30-2009 03:45 PM PDT
