Your Landlord Rights Update for 2016

Beginning January 1, 2016, new laws regarding landlord-tenant rights will be put into place regarding termination of tenancy for domestic violence, the allowance of clotheslines or drying racks and the responsibility of mold.

Termination for domestic violence:

In order for a tenant (or household member residing on the property) to be terminated from the premises for domestic violence, the landlord was required to provide him/her with a 30-day written notice of termination. The notice was to be administered provided that a copy of a temporary restraining order or protective order or a copy of a peace officer’s report stating that a report alleging domestic violence or sexual assault has been filed. The law has been changed to require a notice of only 14 days for termination of tenancy with the above stated documentation.

Allowance of clothesline or drying rack:

Landlord approval of clotheslines or drying racks is now required provided that it (1) does not interfere with maintenance or the property, (2) does not create a health or safety hazard, (3) tenant seeks approval to attach to clothesline to a building prior to attachment, (4) clothesline or rack does not violate time/location restriction previously imposed by the landlord and (5) the tenant has received landlord’s approval for its use.

Mold:

The landlord is not obligated to repair mold dilapidation until he/she has received (actual) notice of dilapidation or if the condition exists due to the tenant interfering with the landlord’s attempt make necessary repairs prior to incident.

For further questions, concerns or clarification, please contact Peter C. Wittlin, esq.
Realtor Law Update- Landlords & Tenants