As a landlord, you can do many things to ensure that your tenants are happy and that your property is well taken care of. However, there are also several things that you cannot do. Here are five things landlords cannot do.
5 Things Landlords Cannot Do
#1 – You Cannot Enter An Apartment Without Notice
If there’s one thing you need to keep in mind, you don’t have unlimited access to your rental property. You could be charged for trespassing if you enter without permission.
Most states require a 24-hour notice before you can enter. You can only enter without permission during fires, natural disasters, and emergencies.
Louisiana State law says a landlord doesn’t have to provide notice before entry, but it’s always a good policy to provide one under normal conditions.
#2 – You Cannot Ask Your Tenants To Do Repairs
As a landlord, you are responsible for ensuring that your property is secure and well-maintained, not your tenants. Instead, you must hire a professional to do the work.
Additionally, you should regularly inspect your property for any potential risks. If you find any potential hazards, you should take steps to address them immediately.
#3 – You Cannot Discriminate Against Your Tenants
The Fair Housing Act, passed in 1968, is a landmark civil rights law that prohibits discrimination in housing based on race, color, religion, sex, or national origin. The Act covers various housing-related activities, including advertising, zoning, lending, and insurance.
#4 – You Cannot Evict Tenants On A Whim
As a landlord, it’s essential to know the ins and outs of eviction law. Evicting a tenant is not as simple as just telling them to leave; there are specific procedures to follow for the eviction to be legal.
The first step is to give your tenant notice. Depending on your state, this could be anything from a few days to a month or more. The next step is to file an eviction complaint with the court. There are specific requirements that vary from state to state.
#5 – You Cannot Raise Your Rent Indiscriminately
Landlords must understand when they can and cannot raise the rent. You cannot change the lease terms as long as there are no violations because the rental agreement is legally binding.
A landlord may raise the rent in between lease terms but not in the middle of a lease term. Notifying the tenant of rental increases between lease terms in Louisiana is not required.
Final Words
Becoming a landlord can be a lucrative and rewarding experience, but there are some things you should keep in mind to avoid any potential legal issues. We hope this article has helped clarify what those things are.
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