Landlord lawyers can be a huge asset to anyone who plans to rent their property. According to RubyHome, about 34% of houses in America are rental properties, and there are various reasons homeowners choose to rent their property. You may not be ready to buy your own home, or perhaps you only plan to stay in the area for a short time. In any case, landlord lawyers can help with the rental process in the following ways.
1. Documentation Support
Some landlords make the critical mistake of using a standard “form” lease that they find online. While these leases are not terrible tools, they are rather generalized and do leave renters unprotected. Landlord lawyers can draw up very specific rental agreements that protect the landlord and the tenant.
Of course, when you use a lawyer to manage your rental agreements, you are ensured of compliance with local rules and laws. Rental agreements are instruments that are used to protect all parties. However, if the language is vague, you may not get the protection you believe you have. It is essential that all parties are on the same page when it comes to rental requirements.
Rental agreements should be personalized to the specific property. General agreements provide general protection, and you may find that general protection as a renter is not enough. To ensure you are fully protected, it’s essential to have a lawyer review the agreement before you sign anything.
2. Mediation Services
Unfortunately, landlord/tenant disputes are very common. When you have landlord lawyers on your side, they can easily step in and mediate these types of disputes. With the right team, disputes can be easily resolved.
Many times, things that are said during landlord/tenant disputes are taken out of context. It’s important that you have protection during these conversations. Proper communication and documentation are an essential part of managing disputes. It can be very difficult to navigate these types of disputes on your own.
Landlord lawyers also offer litigation support in case the dispute can’t be solved outside of court. A lawyer can appear in court on your behalf, which can reduce the stress of dealing with your rental property. A lawyer can also manage eviction proceedings if that service is ever needed.
3. Legal Advice
Many areas of renting a property are governed by law, so having the right legal support can make a difference. Staying in compliance with local laws is important, as there can be penalties if you don’t. Lawyers can manage everything from rent increases to discrimination claims and ensure that you are always on the right side of the law.
A lawyer can educate you on your legal responsibilities as a renter as well. Many new renters have no idea what they are required to do under the law and are unaware of what their landlord’s responsibilities are. A lawyer can provide you with the information you need to ensure you are getting everything you need out of renting your home or apartment.
4. Compliance
Many landlords choose to turn property management over to professional property managers. While these professionals are very good at what they do, they are not lawyers. Property managers act on a landlord’s behalf to manage a property, but ultimately the landlord is the party responsible. As a renter, having landlord lawyers by your side can help ensure your property manager and landlord are doing things by the book.
The lawyer can provide a great deal of guidance on every topic, from tenant screening to correspondence. Landlord lawyers are well-versed in how security deposits should be handled, too.
Renting a property is not as cut and dry as it may seem. There are a lot of laws that need to be considered, as it can be a complex process. A lawyer focusing on real estate law can ensure you navigate the process easily and comply with local rental laws.
Are you ready to rent your first apartment, condo, or home? Turn to our team at The Law Office Of Lawrence M. Centanni to ensure your lease agreement meets local legal requirements. When it comes to your landlord/tenant relationship, be sure you have legal support should any issues arise during your lease. Get the support you need by calling us today! We look forward to assisting you soon.
