Common Landlord/Tenant Disputes

Landlords and tenants often do not get along. Many landlords think their tenants are messy or demanding. Tenants may think their landlords are greedy and unwilling to fix their problems.

Misunderstandings and failure to abide by lease terms often lead to disputes. When tenants and landlords cannot agree, things can get tense. Shootings and murders have occurred due to disputes.

The rental process can be tricky. It requires careful attention to applicable laws. A rental agreement should include various elements, such as the exact amount of rent, when the rent is due, late charges, utilities, tenant responsibilities, and eviction information.

Some of the most frequent disputes include:

• Security deposit issues. Disagreements over the return or deductions from the security deposit are common. Tenants may feel that deductions are unfair, while landlords may feel justified due to damages or unpaid rent.
• Maintenance and repairs. Tenants may claim the landlord is not making necessary repairs or addressing maintenance issues in a timely manner, while landlords may argue that the issues are the tenant’s responsibility or due to negligence.
• Rent payment and increases. Late or missed rent payments can lead to disputes. Conflicts can also arise if landlords increase rent unexpectedly or without following proper legal notice.
• Property damage. Landlords may claim that tenants have caused damage beyond normal wear and tear, leading to disputes over repairs or costs. Tenants may argue that the damage was already present or is due to normal usage.
• Lease termination. Disagreements over lease termination can arise if a tenant moves out early or a landlord attempts to evict without proper cause or notice. Issues may also occur if either party believes the lease terms have not been honored.
• Lease violations. Violations of lease terms, such as having unauthorized pets, subletting without permission, or disturbing neighbors, can lead to disputes and potential eviction.
• Tenants may raise concerns about habitability, such as pest infestations, mold, or lack of essential utilities. If the landlord fails to address these issues, it can lead to disputes about rent payment or moving out early.
• Privacy and entry rights. Tenants have a right to privacy, and landlords are typically required to provide notice before entering the property. Disputes can occur if a landlord enters without notice or if a tenant denies reasonable access for maintenance or inspections.
• Utility payments. Disputes may arise over who is responsible for paying utilities if this is not clearly outlined in the lease agreement.
• Security concerns. Tenants may dispute over the landlord’s responsibility to provide adequate security, such as functioning locks or secure entryways.

Seek Legal Help

Landlord/tenant disputes are no laughing matter. Unfortunately, many escalate into physical altercations, shootings, and fatalities.

Contact Fort Lauderdale landlord/tenant dispute lawyer  Edward J. Jennings, P.A. for help with your rental situation. If you suspect that your rights have been violated as either a landlord or a tenant, reach out to our law firm today. To schedule a consultation, call 954-764-4330 or fill out the online form.

Source:

your-advocates.org/real-estate-law/landlord-tenant-issues/