Tenants
Tenants, renters, and lessees are all terms for the people that rent or lease property. In the lessor/lessee relationship both landlords and tenants have rights and responsibilities. Make sure to get everything in writing and throughly read any lease agreements and contracts before signing them.
Tenant Act
A Landlord and Tenant Act outlines the rules and responsibilities of residential and commercial renting. There are federal and state sanctioned Landlord and Tenant Acts, although most are a combination of both. Make sure your rental or lease agreement jives with the laws of your state or county.
Tenant Eviction
There are several reasons a landlord may consider tenant eviction. A tenant can be evicted for nonpayment of rent, violation of the lease, health and safety issues, or bankruptcy. Landlords must give prior notice before beginning eviction proceedings and must cite the reasons for eviction. If you're being wrongfully evicted don't be afraid to bring charges against your landlord.
Tenant Laws
There are many tenant laws that protect both the tenant and the landlord. Laws against unfair eviction, disclosure acts, and discrimination all exist to protect tenants. Many tenant laws enforce the landlord/tenant relationship. For example, its the landlord's responsibility to provide a livable space but the tenant's responsibility to keep the space livable.
Tenant Responsibilities
There are many tenant responsibilities to be aware of when renting a property. Of course, its the tenant's responsibility to pay the rent in full and on time. Its also the tenant's responsibility to keep the area clean, keep noise level to a minimum, and notify the landlord of any damage of the property.
Tenant Rights
Like tenant responsibilities, there are many tenant rights that protect renters. There are laws that prohibit, among other things, discriminatory rental practices. Tenants also have the right to habitable premises, privacy, and the right to bring legal action against your landlord for breach of contract.