Landlord Tenant Law: Your Rights and Responsibilities Explained

When you rent a home, you’re not just signing a piece of paper—you’re entering a legal relationship governed by landlord tenant law, the set of rules that define the rights and duties of renters and property owners. Also known as rental law, it protects both sides: tenants from unfair evictions and landlords from unpaid rent or property damage. This isn’t just about contracts—it’s about real-life situations like being locked out, dealing with a broken heater, or finding out your landlord sold the building while you’re still living there.

One of the most common misunderstandings is about security deposits, the money you pay upfront that your landlord must return when you move out, minus legitimate deductions. Also known as rental deposits, it’s not their money to keep. In places like Virginia, landlords have just 45 days to return it or explain why they’re withholding part of it. Miss the deadline? You could be owed penalties. Then there’s the issue of lease agreements, the written contract that spells out rent, duration, repairs, and rules. Also known as rental contracts, it’s your legal shield. If your landlord tries to raise rent mid-lease or kick you out without cause, that lease is your proof they’re breaking the rules.

Another big question: can your landlord sell the place you’re renting? Yes—but only if your lease stays in place. That’s not a suggestion; it’s the law in states like Maryland. The new owner can’t force you out just because they bought the property. You still get to stay until your lease ends, and they can’t change the rent or terms unless your original agreement allows it. And if they try to illegally evict you? You have rights to fight back, including keeping your deposit and possibly suing for damages.

These rules aren’t the same everywhere. What works in Virginia doesn’t apply in California or India. That’s why knowing your local rental laws, the specific regulations that govern renting in your city or state matters more than generic advice. A landlord in Texas might not need to fix a leaky faucet immediately, but in New York, they could be breaking the law by ignoring it. This collection of posts covers real cases—from what happens when a deposit isn’t returned on time, to how a sale affects your tenancy, to how to spot a fake rental listing. You’ll find clear answers to questions you didn’t even know to ask.

Whether you’re a renter trying to keep your deposit, a landlord learning how to screen tenants legally, or someone who just bought a rental property and has no idea where to start—this isn’t theory. These are real situations with real consequences. What you read here can save you money, time, and stress. Let’s get into what actually works, what doesn’t, and how to protect yourself before things go wrong.