Discrimination

• State and federal tenants' rights laws prohibit housing discrimination. Landlords cannot refuse to rent to you because of your race, religion, nationality, gender, sexual orientation, handicap or family status.
  
  

Lease Terms

• Most states prohibit unreasonable lease terms such as clauses that exempt landlords from legal liability, force you to forfeit your entire security deposit when you move out or oblige you to admit fault in every dispute.
  
  

Security Deposits

• States regulate how landlords can use your security deposit. Landlords may generally only use security deposits to pay for repairs to vacated apartments or as reimbursement for unpaid rent and must return any remaining funds to you.
  
  

Livability

• Many states' renters' rights laws mandate basic standards of livability. Generally, you have the right to a home in compliance with all applicable health, safety and building codes.
  
  

Repairs

• Generally, landlords must keep apartments and buildings in good repair and maintain appliances in safe working order.