As they search for a new home, many renters worry about their safety. Older apartments could have asbestos-containing insulation or lead-based paint on the walls. In some neighborhoods, crime may also be a prevalent occurrence. There are several things tenants may do to protect themselves, even though landlords are frequently in charge of making sure their rental houses are secure.
Illegal Activity and Protection
Usually, the landlord is accountable for making sure there hasn’t been any criminal behavior on the rented property. The installation of a deadbolt and pin lock in the door handle is mandated by a number of municipal legislations for every apartment. This guarantees that a renter can properly safeguard their residence. Landlords may choose to implement additional security measures, such as mounting external lighting or pruning tall plants, to deter criminal behavior and improve visibility, depending on the local crime rate.
Additionally, landlords are required to keep unlawful activity, such as drug dealing, out of their properties. A common clause in leases forbids engaging in any criminal activity inside the rented properties. If the landlord notices any illegal action, they have the right to evict the tenant solely on that ground.
Building danger and security
The building itself can be the other main danger to the security of the tenants. It’s possible that older structures don’t follow contemporary safety and building regulations. They might also include hazardous substances like lead. Typically, many states and towns demand the following of landlords:
- Inform tenants of any unsafe environmental conditions before they sign the rental agreement.
- Install specific fire exits or smoke and CO detectors in each apartment.
The majority of the time, landlords must also undertake appropriate repairs to increase building safety. However, they are not obligated to make significant renovations before renting a house.
What Renters May Do
While it is mostly the landlord’s responsibility to ensure the apartment building is secure, there are some common sense precautions you can take on your own behalf
- Equip yourself with the crime rates in your area. You can assess if the property owner took enough safety precautions using this information.
- Check out the rental in person. You ought to enquire about the construction materials used and the date the apartment was built throughout the viewing. Examining the state of the ventilation systems, electrical outlets, and smoke alarms is also a good idea.
- Purchase renter’s insurance. Rental insurance policies come in a variety of forms, but they are typically inexpensive and will reimburse tenants if their property is damaged or stolen.
How to defend yourself against your landlord
Be aware that a landlord must give you adequate notice before entering your apartment, unless there is an emergency, and may only do so for legitimate reasons, such as the need to perform repairs, check for violations, show the flat to potential buyers, or other reasons outlined in your lease.
Tenants have the right to complain to the appropriate authorities and may even pursue legal action if their landlord violates any of these rights.
Learn More from a Lawyer About Landlord Liability and Tenant Safety
Every renter has the right to a safe home that is uninfected by harmful criminal activities and health risks. You might wish to look into your legal options if you think your landlord has disregarded their obligation to give you a secure place to reside. You can find out if you have a strong case by consulting a neighborhood landlord-tenant lawyer. We take great pride in being the go-to source for legal resources and information here at Siler & Ingber. Call us right away!