TenantRightsUS

Know Your Rights as a Tenant

Renting an apartment or house comes with rights that many tenants don't know they have. Landlords can't just show up unannounced, withhold your security deposit without reason, or refuse to fix a broken heater in January. But what they can and can't do depends heavily on where you live.

This site covers tenant rights state by state — covering security deposits, eviction procedures, habitability requirements, and lease terms. Pick your state below to find information relevant to your situation.

Remember: state law sets a floor, not a ceiling. Local ordinances in cities like New York, San Francisco, or Chicago often give tenants additional protections beyond what state law requires.

Not legal advice. The information on this site is for general educational purposes only. Laws vary by state. Always consult a licensed attorney for guidance on your specific situation.

Choose Your State

Alabama Alaska Arizona Arkansas California Colorado Connecticut Delaware Florida Georgia Hawaii Idaho Illinois Indiana Iowa Kansas Kentucky Louisiana Maine Maryland Massachusetts Michigan Minnesota Mississippi Missouri Montana Nebraska Nevada New Hampshire New Jersey New Mexico New York North Carolina North Dakota Ohio Oklahoma Oregon Pennsylvania Rhode Island South Carolina South Dakota Tennessee Texas Utah Vermont Virginia Washington West Virginia Wisconsin Wyoming

Need to speak with an attorney? Find a local lawyer who handles your type of case — most offer free consultations.

Also useful: legal document templates · insurance quotes