1) Document All Communications with Your Landlord in Writing
It is best practice to document all communications you do with your landlord. Keeping good documentation can save you from a lot of trouble during and after your tenancy.
2) Do Not Withhold Rent if the Landlord is Not Making Repairs
It is not a good idea to withhold rent from the landlord even if repairs are not being addressed. Tenants don’t have access to their legal repair remedies, such as “repair and deduct”, if they are not current in rent. Tenants also make themselves vulnerable to evictions if they don’t pay rent.
3) Prioritize Paying Rent above Other Expenses
Housing loss makes it virtually impossible to maintain stability in other areas of life. Don’t take any chances with your housing. Document every payment and communication with your landlord to protect yourself against housing loss.
4) Eviction Always Requires a Court Process
Evictions require a specific and often lengthy court process. Even if you’ve failed to pay rent, a landlord cannot take actions outside of the court system that would intimidate you to vacate. Examples of illegal landlord actions: removing a tenant’s belongings without their consent, shutting of utilities, and changing the locks. It is best practice to call the police if the landlord attempts to exercise these actions without a court order.
5) Document the Condition of Your Unit When You Move In and Move Out
Thoroughly documenting the condition of your unit at move in and move out can help you defend against wrongful damage charges. In order to legally collect a deposit, landlords need to provide tenants with a move in checklist. Fill out the checklist thoroughly to document preexisting damages at move in. The checklist must be signed by both landlord and tenant. While landlords are not required to do a move out walkthrough, request one before you move out. This may give you a better understanding about what the landlord may charge you.
