Tenant Tips

Tenants aren’t just looking for four walls and a roof anymore. In 2026, people want homes that feel comfortable, work well, and come with peace of mind. They also want a property management team that responds when something goes wrong, communicates clearly, and genuinely cares about their living experience. That’s an important part of good Calgary property management. At Green Casa, we’re not just managing properties—we’re creating living experiences people want to stay in. From quick support to well maintained homes, we focus on the everyday things that help tenants feel comfortable and cared for. 1. Fast, Friendly Support Nobody wants to wait days to get a broken stove, leaking tap, or heating issue fixed. When something goes wrong, tenants want a quick response and to know that someone is taking care of it. At Green Casa, we respond to maintenance concerns promptly and keep tenants informed along the way. It’s not just about fixing a problem—it’s about making tenants feel supported and confident in their home. 2. Clear Communication Tenants don’t want surprises. We provide clear move-in instructions, fair policies, and open updates. Whether it’s rent reminders or upcoming maintenance, we believe no news is never good news. That’s an important part of good Calgary property management. 3. Clean, Safe, and Well-Maintained Homes It sounds simple, but it’s everything. Our properties are clean, secure, and ready to live in from day one. We do regular inspections and handle repairs before they turn into major problems. Keeping a home well maintained also helps tenants feel comfortable and confident in where they live. 4. A Landlord Who Listens Yes, we’re the property managers, but we’re also here to support the people living in the property. Tenants may have questions, concerns, or ideas that can make their home more comfortable, and those things deserve to be heard. We take tenant feedback seriously and try to understand what they need. After all, when tenants feel comfortable and supported, it creates a better experience for everyone and helps property owners feel confident too. 5. Community Over Contracts We want people to feel at home, not like they’re simply renting a property. A good living experience is also about the neighborhood, the surroundings, and feeling comfortable in the place you live. That’s why we care about more than just the property itself. We want tenants to enjoy their space, feel connected to their community, and have a place they’re happy to call home. Final Thoughts The best tenants are the ones who stay. And the best way to keep them? Give them a home—and a management team—they can count on. A good rental experience comes from the small things: quick support, clear communication, a well maintained home, and someone who is willing to listen. That is what good Calgary property management should provide. That’s what Green Casa is all about—helping tenants feel comfortable in their homes while giving property owners the confidence that their properties are being well cared for. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) What do tenants look for in a rental home in 2026? Tenants generally want a comfortable, well maintained home, clear communication, quick support, and a property management team that listens to their concerns. Why is quick maintenance support important for tenants? Quick maintenance support helps tenants resolve everyday problems before they become bigger issues. It also gives them confidence that their concerns are being taken seriously. How does clear communication improve the rental experience? Clear communication helps tenants understand important information about their home, including maintenance updates, rent reminders, and property notices. It also helps prevent confusion and unnecessary stress. What should tenants expect from property management services in Calgary? Tenants can expect support with property maintenance, communication, repairs, and other day to day rental concerns. Good property management services in Calgary should help create a smoother and more comfortable living experience. How can good property management help retain tenants? When tenants have a well maintained home, receive timely support, and feel heard, they are more likely to have a positive rental experience and choose to stay longer. Hafil Perincheeri Co-Founder & Director Linkedin Envelope Instagram Hafil Perincheeri is an engineer-turned-realtor, investor, and builder based in Calgary, Canada. As Co-Founder and Director of Greencasa, he specializes in home flips, property development, and investment strategies. Since 2019, he has guided clients in home buying, multifamily investing, and financing options like CMHC and MLI Select, ensuring transparent, informed decisions. Get A Free Quote Green Casa Contact Form Full NamePhone NumberEmailCityServices– Select –Property ManagementConstruction ConsultancyCapital InvestmentMLI Select Program GuidanceDescribe your Requirement:Submit

In Calgary’s rental market, one thing has become very clear: good tenants are gold. The kind who pay on time, treat your property with respect, and stay long enough to make your investment truly worth it. At Green Casa Property Management, we work with landlords across the city, from first-time rental owners in Forest Lawn to portfolio investors in Bridgeland, and almost every one of them asks the same thing: How do I find good tenants and how do I keep them? The answer isn’t magic. It’s about intentionality, systems, and treating your rental like a people-first business. Let’s walk through what that looks like in real life. Start With the Basics: A Clean, Well-Presented Property You only get one chance at a first impression. And in Calgary’s competitive market, where renters are viewing multiple listings in a weekend, your property needs to stand out for the right reasons. Here’s what good tenants are looking for (and what we make sure is done before every showing): Clean and freshly painted walls Working appliances Bright, professional photos Tidy landscaping or entrance areas A property that feels cared for Tenants who respect where they live are attracted to properties that are respected by the owner. Screen Smart: Attract Everyone, Rent to the Right One We get it. When your unit is sitting empty, it’s tempting to say yes to the first applicant who shows interest. But here’s the truth: a rushed decision now can lead to months of stress later. At Green Casa, we use a full screening process that includes: Credit and background checks Employment and income verification Reference checks with past landlords Honest conversations with the applicant And just as importantly, we listen to our gut. If something feels off, we dig deeper. A good tenant has nothing to hide and appreciates a landlord who takes things seriously. Communicate Like a Human, Not a Robot Once a great tenant moves in, it’s your job to give them a reason to stay. In today’s world, how you communicate matters. At Green Casa, we believe in: Clear, timely responses to questions Respectful reminders and follow-ups Transparency about repairs or changes A warm, approachable tone Tenants don’t want to feel like a number. They want to know they’re being heard, and that their home matters to you. When they do, they’re much more likely to treat it like their own. Fix Issues Fast—Even the Small Ones This is where trust is either built or broken. A leaking tap. A broken mailbox. A flickering hallway light. These may seem like small issues, but how you handle them sends a message about how much you care. Here’s what good tenants are thinking: “If they’re slow to fix this small thing, what happens when the heat goes out?” At Green Casa, we don’t wait. We log every maintenance request, prioritize what’s urgent, and work with local contractors we know and trust. The result: Tenants stay longer, and landlords sleep better. Offer Stability, and Tenants Will Stay Many renters in Calgary aren’t just looking for a roof over their head. They’re looking for stability, especially in times when the housing market feels uncertain. That means: Offering reasonable annual rent increases Giving early notice of any changes Providing long-term lease options when possible Respecting their need for quiet enjoyment of the space You don’t need to bend over backward. But treating your tenant like a partner, rather than just a paying customer, goes a long way. Know the Market, Price It Right A great tenant won’t overpay just to be nice. We always tell landlords: price your unit fairly, and it will rent itself. Price it too high, and even the best renters will pass you over. Calgary’s rental market shifts from season to season. That’s why we stay on top of: Market rent trends by neighborhood What amenities are in demand What competitors are offering nearby Pricing correctly not only fills your unit faster, but also attracts the quality of tenant you want to keep. The Green Casa Difference At Green Casa, we treat every property like it’s our own and every tenant like a potential long-term relationship. We believe happy tenants create happy landlords. And our entire system is built around clear communication, smart systems, and honest service. Whether you own one condo or a portfolio of fourplexes, the key to success is always the same: Attract good people. Treat them well. Keep them longer. That’s how you build a strong investment property in Calgary. And that’s what we’re here to help you do. Hafil Perincheeri Co-Founder & Director Linkedin Envelope Instagram Hafil Perincheeri is an engineer-turned-realtor, investor, and builder based in Calgary, Canada. As Co-Founder and Director of Greencasa, he specializes in home flips, property development, and investment strategies. Since 2019, he has guided clients in home buying, multifamily investing, and financing options like CMHC and MLI Select, ensuring transparent, informed decisions. Get A Free Quote Green Casa Contact Form Full NamePhone NumberEmailCityServices– Select –Property ManagementConstruction ConsultancyCapital InvestmentMLI Select Program GuidanceDescribe your Requirement:Submit

I want to paint a picture that may feel all too familiar. You have moved out left the spot spotless and now the landlord holds your security deposit with no explanation. You are a landlord and a tenant has not paid rent for three months and ignores your calls. Either way you are stuck. What do you do? The RTDRS rental dispute process provides a solution. RTDRS is Alberta’s lower‑cost alternative to court for resolving landlord‑tenant disagreements. In this guide I will walk you through the RTDRS rental dispute process step by step from filing your application to enforcing your order. Whether you are a tenant fighting for your deposit or a landlord seeking possession knowing the RTDRS rental dispute process can save you thousands of dollars and months of stress. What Is the RTDRS? RTDRS is a tribunal created under Alberta’s Residential Tenancies Act. Think of RTDRS as a court made just for rental disputes. RTDRS deals with rent, security deposit claims, repairs and eviction matters. RTDRS can offer mediation or a hearing and issue orders that can be enforced if necessary. RTDRS gives an alternative to court and it is designed to be faster more informal and less expensive. Most people represent themselves without lawyers. The RTDRS handles rental disputes over security deposits and deductions rent arrears or disagreements about charges, serious repair or habitability issues that a landlord will not fix rental disputes connected to notices to end tenancy or eviction and issues about entry or privacy. If you are wondering whether the RTDRS rental dispute process is right for you begin by confirming that your issue is within RTDRS’s jurisdiction. Step 1: Before You File: The Notice Requirement One of the important and often overlooked, parts of the RTDRS rental dispute process happens before you even fill out a form. You cannot simply file an application. Expect RTDRS to sort everything out.  First, you must give the party a formal written notice and a reasonable opportunity to resolve the issue. For example, if you are a tenant dealing with a repair issue give your landlord a written notice describing the problem. Request a reasonable timeframe for completion. If you are a landlord dealing with rent you must follow the proper notice requirements under the Residential Tenancies Act. Keep copies of everything these notices become evidence later in the RTDRS rental dispute process. If the problem is not resolved after you have given notice you can proceed with your application. Step 2: Gather Your Evidence Evidence is the backbone of any rental dispute case. Strong evidence includes copies of the lease, payment records, dated photos and videos repair requests and written communications, receipts and invoices text messages and emails, and witness notes and statements. Organize your evidence with timelines and labels. The more organized you are, the easier it is for the adjudicator to follow your case. Bring copies, not originals. Keep the originals safe. Your evidence should directly connect to your claim. If you are disputing a security deposit deduction have your move‑in and move‑out inspection reports ready. If you are seeking a repair order document every communication with your landlord. Step 3: Complete and File Your Application Now it is time to get official. Complete the RTDRS Application for Dispute Resolution form. Fill in your contact information and the property address. Provide a concise statement of the dispute. State what remedy you want: payment, repair order or possession order. Attach your supporting evidence. Submit the application online by mail or in person. Pay the $75 filing fee. Apply for a fee waiver if eligible. RTDRS will give you a Notice of Hearing with the date, time and location of your hearing. Act promptly after attempts to resolve the problem because delays can affect your evidence and outcomes. Step 4: Serve the Other Party Once you have filed, you must give a copy of the application package application form, evidence, and Notice of Hearing to the other party. The other party is called the “respondent.” You must serve them at least three clear days before the hearing. Then file proof of service with RTDRS. If the other party is not properly served, the hearing may be. Your application may be dismissed. Step 5: Prepare for. Attend the Hearing The hearing is your opportunity to present your case. Most hearings are conducted by phone, online or in person. Attend on time. Follow the adjudicator’s instructions. Present your evidence concisely and calmly. Ask for the remedy you want. Prepare a timeline of events mark key documents for quick reference and plan what you will say. If the other party does not show up the adjudicator may still Make a decision based on your evidence. At the conclusion of hearings the Tenancy Dispute Officer will give verbal reasons for their decision and a written Order. Step 6: Enforce Your Order Getting an order is half the battle. The RTDRS Order takes effect when it is entered (filed) at the Court of King’s Bench and served on the respondent(s). If the respondent fails to pay a judgment, the next step is debt collection. You may apply for a Writ of Enforcement at the Court of King’s Bench. For possession orders contact a Civil Enforcement Agency. It gives you a binding order, but you must take the final steps to enforce it. Conclusion The rental dispute process is one of the powerful tools available to Alberta landlords and tenants. RTDRS offers a lower‑cost alternative to court for resolving rental disputes. From unpaid rent and security deposit claims to repair issues and eviction matters RTDRS can hear a range of cases. The key to success is preparation: gather evidence follow the proper notice requirements, complete your application carefully, serve the other party correctly and present your case clearly at the hearing. Whether you are a tenant fighting for your deposit or a landlord seeking possession understanding the rental dispute process is your path to a fair resolution. Your dispute does not 10

Imagine this: you’ve just found your apartment but the landlord is three hours away and the lease needs to be signed by midnight. In the past that meant a rush to drive across the city or wait until tomorrow and potentially losing the unit to someone. Now it means opening an app on your phone and signing with a few taps. Digital leasing systems are changing how Canadians rent, giving renters the freedom to access and sign their lease anytime anywhere. In 2026 digital lease agreements and online systems are becoming the norm across the country. Whether you’re a renter in Vancouver, Calgary or Halifax digital leasing systems are putting the power back in your hands fast and completely paperless. In this guide I will show you how digital leasing systems work, why they are better for renters and what your rights are when you sign a lease online. What Are Digital Leasing Systems? Let me start with the basics. Digital leasing systems are tools that allow landlords and renters to create, sign and manage rental agreements entirely online. These systems handle everything from applications and checking renters to electronic lease signing and online rent payment. Of printing piles of paper mailing documents or organizing in-person meetings you do it all through a secure site or mobile app. In 2026 digital leasing has changed from a convenience to an expectation. Renters are choosing e-signatures over in-person or faxed lease signings more. Across Canada, digital leases and e-signatures are legally the same as paper contracts with handwritten signatures. The way Alberta renters and landlords create leases is changing quickly digital agreements, e-signatures, and online systems are now the standard. How Digital Leasing Gives Power to Renters The move to leasing systems is more than just convenience; it is about giving renters control over their rental experience. Let me share the ways these systems are making a difference. Sign Your Lease Anytime Anywhere One of the problems with traditional leasing is the scheduling challenge. You have to match up with the landlord find a time that works for both of you and often travel to a place to sign papers. With leasing systems that is no longer necessary. You can read your lease at your pace ask questions and sign with a few clicks right from your phone, tablet or computer. No need to plan signing appointments. No travel is needed. Whether you’re at work on vacation or in another province you can. Sign your lease instantly. Access Your Documents Anywhere How many times have you needed to check a lease detail or find your move-out date only to realize you have no idea where the paper copy is? Digital leasing systems fix this problem by keeping all your lease documents in one place. Once you sign your lease is available through your tenant system anytime. You can see rent history and download receipts. Get lease documents whenever you need them. This is especially helpful for renters who move often or need to refer to their lease for work or government purposes. 24/7 Help and Communication A good digital leasing system does more than just let you sign the lease. It gives you a way to talk to your landlord or property manager through the app. You can send maintenance requests 24/7 upload pictures of the problem and see the status of your work orders in real time. No more trying to reach someone on the phone or wondering if your request was received. The Re-Leased Tenant App gives renters easy access to maintenance requests, lease details, payment history and communication with property managers all from their phone. The RentCafe resident app helps renters manage rent payments send maintenance requests and stay up to date. Are Digital Leases Legal in Canada? This is the question I hear most. The answer is yes with a few important details. Canada’s federal Personal Information Protection and Electronic Documents Act (PIPEDA) sets the value of electronic signatures for most business deals. All four eastern provinces have passed commerce laws that say electronic signatures are legally equal to handwritten ones for residential lease agreements. In Ontario digital leases are legally valid if they follow rules under the Residential Tenancies Act and the Electronic Commerce Act. As long as the agreement is clear. Both sides agree, e-signatures are as strong as handwritten ones. In Quebec electronic signatures are just as good as ink signatures long as both sides agree. Across Canada, the structure for e-signatures makes sure they are as strong as hand-signed contracts in most cases. That being said your rights as a renter do not change just because your lease is signed online. Digital leasing brings convenience. Staying informed helps protect your rights and your mind. Building Trust Through Openness One of the missed benefits of digital leasing systems is how they build trust between landlords and renters. When the whole leasing process is clear and recorded it sets up a base of confidence. Renters can see what they are signing ask questions through the system and have a full digital copy of their agreement. There is chance of losing papers, confusion or disagreements. Digital lease agreements make the process easier, safer and better for the planet. Conclusion Digital leasing systems are changing the experience for renters across Canada. From the ability to sign your lease anytime anywhere to 24/7 access to your papers and maintenance requests these systems put control back in your hands. In 2026 digital leasing has become the norm and it is here to stay. Whether you are a first-time renter or a long-time renter knowing how these systems work and being aware of your rights will help you move through the market with confidence. The future of renting is digital. It is making life easier for everyone. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) What are digital leasing systems? Digital leasing systems are tools that let landlords and renters create, sign and manage rental agreements entirely online. They cover everything from applications and 10

Let me ask you something. When was the last time you checked your bank account after paying rent and did not feel worried? If you have been in this situation, you know how frustrating it is. Here is the good news: shared accommodation in Calgary is changing the way people live save money and connect. With the average rent for a one-bedroom apartment being around $1,599 per month more people in Calgary are realizing that sharing a home is not about saving money. It is a better way of living. Sharing a home has benefits beyond just saving money. You get to be part of a community, you have flexibility and you get perks that you would not get if you were living alone. Here is why shared accommodation in Calgary might be the decision you can make in Calgary today. The Financial Reality: Keeping Money in Your Pocket Lets talk about money.The rental market in Calgary has changed a lot over the few years. While the prices are not as high as they used to be the average rent is still around $1,799 per month. Add to that the cost of utilities, internet and other expenses and living alone can be very expensive. This is why many people in Calgary are choosing to share a home with others. By splitting the costs with your housemates you can save 30% to 50% on your housing costs. The average cost of a one-bedroom apartment is around $1,599 per month plus utilities.. If you share a room or a suite you can pay between $700 and $1,200 per month and that often includes utilities and Wi-Fi. That is a difference and it means you can save hundreds of dollars every month. Beyond the Budget: A Built-In Community Moving to a city or a new neighborhood can be lonely. It takes time to make friends. But shared accommodation in Calgary is different: You get to be part of a network from the start. You can bond with your housemates over dinner, movies or exploring Calgarys food scene. Many people who share a home become friends. Having someone to talk to after a day is very comforting. Why Calgary’s Current Market is Ideal for Shared Living The housing market in Calgary is perfect for shared accommodation now: There are more empty apartments available, so you have more choices. Older buildings have space and are cheaper which is a big advantage. If you share a old apartment you get more space for your money than if you were living alone in a small new studio. Unmatched Flexibility for a Life If you do not want to find a roommate on your own you can look into -living spaces in Calgary. Co-living spaces are professionally. They offer private bedrooms and shared common areas. The cost is all-inclusive so you pay one price for everything. It is affordable with prices starting at around $725 per month. You do not have to worry about setting up utilities or buying furniture. It is the balance of privacy and community. Pro Tips for a Seamless Shared Living Experience To make living work you need to communicate clearly: Be open about money and how you will split the costs. Agree about noise, guests, cleaning and shared spaces. Check in with your housemates every month to make sure everything is okay. Be flexible and respectful. You will have a harmonious home. Conclusion Shared accommodation in Calgary is not about saving money. It is, about freedom, flexibility and connection. Whether you choose a roommate setup or a co-living space shared living is a great way to enjoy Calgary without breaking the bank. Your next great home and your next great friend might be a room away. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) What is the minimum number of units required for MLI Select? Your project must have at least 5 self-contained rental units to qualify. What happens if I do not reach 50 points? If your project scores below 50 points, you do not qualify for MLI Select enhanced terms. You would need to pursue CMHC multi-unit insurance or conventional commercial financing, which offer less favorable terms. What is the September 30, 2026 deadline? This is the date after which CMHC will stop accepting energy efficiency attestations against the building codes. After this date, all applications must be scored against the 2020 codes. Can I use MLI Select for an existing building I am purchasing? Yes. MLI Select is available for both construction and existing properties. How long do affordability commitments last? You are required to maintain affordability for a minimum of 10 years, from the date of occupancy. If you commit to keeping rents affordable for 20 years or more, you get 30 points on top. Hafil Perincheeri Co-Founder & Director Linkedin Envelope Instagram Hafil Perincheeri is an engineer-turned-realtor, investor, and builder based in Calgary, Canada. As Co-Founder and Director of Greencasa, he specializes in home flips, property development, and investment strategies. Since 2019, he has guided clients in home buying, multifamily investing, and financing options like CMHC and MLI Select, ensuring transparent, informed decisions. Get A Free Quote Green Casa Contact Form Full NamePhone NumberEmailCityServices– Select –Property ManagementConstruction ConsultancyCapital InvestmentMLI Select Program GuidanceDescribe your Requirement:Submit

You’ve got a dream job in a city, but you’re stuck with a year-long lease and four months to go. Maybe you’re a student who wants to go home for the summer and doesn’t want to pay rent for an empty room. This is where a sublease agreement comes in. A sublease agreement is a contract that lets you, the tenant, rent out your space to someone else called a subtenant for a short time. Before you look for a temporary roommate, you need to know that a sublease agreement comes with big responsibilities and risks. What Is a Sublease Agreement? A sublease agreement is a contract between you and a new person, where you let them use and occupy your property for a shorter term than your original lease. It’s like a mini-lease. You stay responsible to your landlord for paying rent, keeping the property in shape and following all the rules of your main lease. The agreement just helps you share that responsibility with someone for a little while. How Does a Sublease Agreement Actually Work? To understand a sublease agreement, you need to know about the master lease. The master lease is your rental contract with the landlord, and it still applies even after you sign a sublease agreement. This means all the rules in the master lease. Noise rules and pet policies. Apply to your subtenant even if your agreement doesn’t say so. Landlord Consent and Legal Requirements Getting your landlord’s okay is super important. In places, if you don’t get written consent, your landlord can kick you out. I always tell tenants to ask their landlord to explain their situation and present the potential subtenant for approval. What Are Your Rights and Obligations? When you sign a sublease agreement, you’re like a mini-landlord. You have the right to collect rent on time and make sure the subtenant follows the rules. You also have to take care of the property and fix any problems that come up. Your agreement should say who does repairs. You, the subtenant or the landlord. Common Pitfalls of Subleasing Here are the common mistakes people make with their sublease agreement. First many tenants don’t check their subtenants background well. A sublease agreement is only as good as the person signing it. Second tenants often make a agreement that doesn’t cover important stuff like utility payments and guest policies. Third people ignore the move-out condition. Your agreement should say how the subtenant has to leave the property. Conclusion A agreement can be a solution when you need flexibility. You get to cover your rent and the subtenant gets a place to stay without a long-term commitment. You need to get it right. You stay responsible to your landlord. Any failure by your subtenant becomes your failure. By getting written landlord consent, making a sublease agreement checking candidates carefully and following your main lease you can sublet with confidence. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) Is a sublease agreement the same as a lease assignment? No. A sublease agreement gives the temporary rights while you keep the main lease. An assignment permanently transfers all your lease rights to a tenant. Can I evict my subtenant if they don't pay rent? Yes. Your sublease agreement lets you evict the subtenant for not paying or breaking the rules. You have to follow local landlord-tenant laws. Does my landlord have to agree to my sublease agreement? In cases, yes. Many main leases require written landlord consent before any sublease agreement is valid. Can I charge rent more than what I pay my landlord? You can. Some leases don’t let you make a profit. Check your lease and local laws. What happens if my subtenant damages the property? You are still responsible to your landlord. Your sublease agreement should include a security deposit from the subtenant to cover damages. Green Casa Co-Founder & Director Linkedin Envelope Instagram Hafil Perincheeri is an engineer-turned-realtor, investor, and builder based in Calgary, Canada. As Co-Founder and Director of Greencasa, he specializes in home flips, property development, and investment strategies. Since 2019, he has guided clients in home buying, multifamily investing, and financing options like CMHC and MLI Select, ensuring transparent, informed decisions. Get A Free Quote Green Casa Contact Form Full NamePhone NumberEmailCityServices– Select –Property ManagementConstruction ConsultancyCapital InvestmentMLI Select Program GuidanceDescribe your Requirement:Submit

You have just moved into your place and you are feeling happy. The boxes are all unpacked. You are finally settled in. Then something happens. The hot water stops working. Your landlord wants to come into your home at 10 PM without telling you first. This is when you need to know your tenant rights. I have talked to a lot of renters who thought they had no power in these situations. They were wrong. The law protects them. Your tenant rights are like a balance between you and your landlord. They help you only if you know what they are. In this guide we will go through ten tenant rights that every renter should know. We will start from the moment you sign the lease and end when you move out. 1. The Right to a Safe Home The basic thing your landlord has to do is provide a safe home. This means the home has to be good enough to live in. It has to be safe and not have any health problems. You need to have heat in the winter, hot and cold water, electricity and no pests or mold. If your home is not like this you can ask your landlord to fix it. Your landlord cannot just say no. They have to fix it because it’s their job. If they do not fix it you can tell the people in charge of housing in your area. You can even stop paying rent in some places. 2. The Right to Privacy Your home is your space. Your landlord has to respect that. They cannot just come into your home whenever they want. They usually have to tell you 24 to 48 hours before. This is so you can be ready. Your landlord also cannot watch you all the time. Tell you who you can have as guests. If your landlord is coming into your home without telling you they are doing something. You can tell them to stop and write down every time they do it. 3. Protection from Bad Treatment The law says that your landlord cannot treat you badly because of who you’re. They cannot say no to renting to you because of your skin color, religion or where you come from. They also cannot charge you money or make you follow different rules. If you think your landlord is treating you badly you can tell the people in charge. You can even file a complaint. Knowing your tenant rights helps you to stand up for yourself. 4. The Right to Understand Your Lease Before you sign your lease you have to understand what it says. Your landlord has to explain it to you. They cannot hide anything. Make it too hard to understand. You have the right to ask questions and get answers. If your landlord is rushing you to sign that is a sign. Your tenant rights protect you from being tricked. 5. Protection from Being Kicked Out If your landlord wants to kick you out they have to follow the law. They cannot just lock you out. Turn off your electricity. They have to go to court and give you a chance to say what you think. Your tenant rights give you a chance to tell your side of the story. Never let your landlord scare you into leaving without a court order. 6. The Right to Get Your Money Back When you move out your landlord has to give you the money you paid as a deposit. They have to do this within an amount of time usually 14 to 30 days. They can only take out money for things you broke or did not pay for. They cannot take out money for things that are just worn out. You should take pictures of your home when you move in and out to prove what it looked like. 7. Freedom from Revenge If you tell your landlord about something that is broken they cannot get revenge on you. They cannot raise your rent. Kick you out just because you complained. If you think your landlord is doing this you can fight back. You can go to court. Show that they are being mean to you. 8. The Right to Fair Rent Your landlord can raise your rent. They have to be fair. They have to tell you of time usually 30 to 90 days before. If they do not tell you. If they raise it too much that is not fair. You can check the laws in your area to see what you can do. 9. The Right to Work Together You have the right to talk to your neighbors and work together. You can form a group to help each other and make your home a better place. Your landlord cannot stop you from doing this. They cannot be mean to you just because you are working together. 10. The Right to Seek Help If your landlord does something you can get help. You can go to court file a complaint or get help from a lawyer. You can even get money back if you win your case. Do not be afraid to stand up for yourself. Your tenant rights are there to help you. Conclusion Renting a home does not have to be scary. When you know your tenant rights you are in control. You can make sure your landlord treats you fairly. From having a home, to being able to work together with your neighbors your tenant rights are important. Always read your lease carefully write down everything. Do not be afraid to stand up for yourself. A good landlord will respect you for knowing the law. A bad landlord will think before treating you badly. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) What should I do first if my landlord does not want to fix something? Send a written request using certified mail. This way you have proof that you asked for a fix. If they still say 10