Navigating the complex regulatory landscape of Pennsylvania Landlord Tenant Laws is essential for landlords and tenants striving for a harmonious living arrangement. These laws encompass everything from drafting a lease agreement in Pennsylvania, understanding the detailed eviction process in Pennsylvania, to fulfilling tenant responsibilities in Pennsylvania. Explore the benefits of Pennsylvania rental property insurance to shield your investment from unforeseen damages. Whether you're a property owner or a renter, knowledge of these regulations is crucial for a successful and legally compliant rental experience.
Key Takeaways
- Understanding the framework of Pennsylvania's leasing and eviction laws is vital for both parties.
- Lease agreements in Pennsylvania are governed by specific laws that maintain fairness in the rental market.
- Landlords and tenants must follow a structured eviction process in Pennsylvania to ensure legal compliance.
- Tenant responsibilities include maintaining the property and adhering to the agreed terms of conduct.
- Both parties should remain informed about their rights and obligations under the law to avoid disputes.
- The legislation aims to protect the interests of both landlords and tenants, ensuring a balanced relationship.
- Being aware of and understanding these landlord-tenant laws is key to a peaceful rental arrangement.
Understanding the Landlord and Tenant Act of 1951 in PA
The Landlord and Tenant Act of 1951 constitutes a cornerstone of rental law in Pennsylvania, impacting numerous aspects of the relationship between property owners and occupants. This legislation provides comprehensive guidelines outlining landlord obligations in PA, as well as tenant rights in Pennsylvania, and sets forth procedures for lease creation, rent recovery, and possession recovery. Understanding the Act's regulations is crucial for both landlords and tenants to ensure that their rental agreements adhere to legal standards and protect their respective interests, particularly concerning security deposit laws in PA.
Key Provisions and Their Impact on Rentals
Central to this act are the demands placed on written authorizations for leases exceeding three years, requirements for notice before a landlord reclaims possession, and protocols for managing escrow funds—each provision aiming at maintaining harmony and fairness in rental transactions. In particular, the meticulous rules surrounding security deposits help minimize disputes over deductions for property damage or unpaid rent, ensuring that landlords and tenants have clear expectations from the outset of their agreement.
Historical Overview and Modern Interpretations
Reflecting on the history, the Landlord and Tenant Act of 1951 was a response to the need for structured legal relations between those who own real estate and those who inhabit it. Over time, these provisions have adapted, through various amendments and legal interpretations, to match evolving societal norms and fairness in housing standards. This ongoing evolution underscores the importance of landlords and tenants staying informed about their rights and responsibilities under current Pennsylvania law.
Tenant Rights and Responsibilities in Pennsylvania
Tenants in Pennsylvania are afforded a variety of rights designed to protect and enhance their living experience. These rights establish a foundation for fair and equitable dealings between renters and landlords. At the same time, tenants must also be aware of and uphold their responsibilities to maintain a stable rental relationship and prevent conflicts.
Rights to Privacy and Habitable Living Conditions
One of the most important aspects of renter's rights PA is the right to privacy in one’s living space. Landlords must give proper notice before entering a rental property, except in cases of emergency. This ensures that a tenant's home remains their sanctuary. Additionally, habitable living conditions are not a luxury but a right under tenant rights Pennsylvania. This includes access to essential utilities, a structurally sound dwelling, and proper sanitation—a fundamental aspect to living with dignity and safety.
Understanding Security Deposit Rules
When it comes to financial dealings, particularly security deposits, Pennsylvania has clear guidelines that benefit both landlords and tenants. Landlords are permitted to collect up to two months' worth of rent as a security deposit at the beginning of a tenancy. After a tenant resides in the property for more than two years, landlords are required to reduce the security deposit to one month’s rent and may need to pay the tenant interest on the deposit. Understanding these security deposit rules is crucial both for those saving up to rent a new place and for existing tenants considering their budget for future moves.
Moreover, protocols surrounding the return of security deposits and the issuance of an eviction notice PA are also tightly regulated to avoid arbitrary decisions that can impact a tenant's housing security. These regulations are in place to foster responsibility from landlords and to provide a safety net for tenants, ensuring that their rights are not overlooked in the renting process.
Landlord Obligations Under Pennsylvania Rental Laws
Understanding landlord rights PA begins with acknowledging the myriad of responsibilities landlords have under the state's comprehensive rental laws. Foremost, landlords are entrusted with the duty of providing dwellings that are not only safe and sanitary but also adhere to prevailing building codes and habitability standards. This encompasses ensuring access to functional systems for heating, water, and waste disposal, while also maintaining the security of the premises for the tenants' peace of mind.
Fulfilling these obligations is foundational to the landlord-tenant relationship and serves as the groundwork for the trust that both parties place in each other. For landlords, a proactive approach to property maintenance not only reinforces their landlord rights PA but also fosters a sense of responsibility, laying the groundwork for a thriving rental experience.
Moreover, landlords must engage in fair practices during the tenant selection process, avoiding discrimination and adhering strictly to the guidelines provided by the Fair Housing Act. This includes transparent disclosure of potential lead-based paint hazards in older residences—an essential consideration for renters when selecting a home and for landlords to ensure compliance with state and federal laws.
The act of selecting tenants should be free from biases, reflecting fair treatment and respect for diverse backgrounds, contributing to a wider commitment towards creating inclusive communities.
- Provide safe and livable housing conditions
- Adhere to building codes and habitability requirements
- Facilitate essential services: heating, water, waste disposal
- Ensure property safety and security
- Follow Fair Housing Act guidelines during tenant selection
- Disclose information about lead-based paint for applicable properties
On the flip side, tenant responsibilities Pennsylvania requires individuals who reside in these properties to uphold their end of the lease agreement. This includes timely rent payments, respect for the property, and adherence to the outlined terms of conduct.
Furthermore, the eviction process Pennsylvania must be understood by both parties. While eviction is a situation both landlords and tenants hope to avoid, state laws provide clear procedures should eviction become necessary due to lease violations or other serious concerns. Ensuring that these procedures are duly followed is paramount for legal compliance and the safeguarding of both parties' rights.
Ultimately, the collaborative efforts of landlords in upholding their duties and tenants in maintaining their responsibilities pave the way for a mutually beneficial rental relationship under the Pennsylvania Landlord Tenant Laws.
Eviction Process Guidelines in Pennsylvania
Navigating the eviction process in Pennsylvania requires a clear understanding of state laws and adherence to specific procedures. For landlords, grasping the intricacies of the eviction process is essential to ensure actions are within legal bounds and respect tenant rights. For tenants, knowledge of these provisions is key to understanding their rights and the expectations placed upon them.
Proper Notice for Eviction
Before a Pennsylvania landlord can initiate the eviction process, they must provide the tenant with an appropriate eviction notice PA. The type and duration of notice vary according to the grounds for eviction and the terms of the lease. Typically, this notice is a prerequisite for filing any legal action and sets the stage for the subsequent steps in the eviction procedure.
Legal Grounds for Tenant Eviction
The grounds for eviction in Pennsylvania are outlined by state law and include, but are not limited to, non-payment of rent, lease violations, and other breaches of the rental agreement. Landlords are required to uphold landlord rights PA by proceeding with evictions in a manner that is fair and in accordance with the law, avoiding any abrupt or illegal eviction attempts that could result in legal repercussions.
- Rent non-payment or habitual late payment
- Lease agreement violations by the tenant
- Property damage beyond normal wear and tear
- Illegal or criminal activity conducted on the premises
- Failure to vacate after proper notice at lease termination
Every step of the eviction process Pennsylvania must strictly follow legal procedure, from the delivery and timeframe of the notice to the handling of the actual eviction. By ensuring compliance with the legal framework, the rights of all parties involved are protected, and the eviction process can move forward with legitimacy.
Rental Agreements and Leases in Pennsylvania
Within the state of Pennsylvania, both oral and written forms of rental agreements hold their own weight, and understanding the nuances of each is vital for a successful leasing experience. The range of options reflects Pennsylvania's legal acknowledgment of diverse leasing arrangements, balancing the need for both structure and flexibility in landlord-tenant relations.
Lease Duration and Disclosures
A critical factor in Pennsylvania's leasing protocols is the length of the rental agreement. Lease agreements in Pennsylvania of more than one year require a written form to be legally enforceable, necessitating clear terms and conditions upfront. For leases under a year, including month-to-month arrangements, oral agreements can be legally binding. However, the nuances of verbal agreements can lead to complexities, making a thorough understanding of renter's rights PA and security deposit laws PA crucial. Additionally, Pennsylvania law mandates specific disclosures in lease agreements such as lead-based paint information, which is imperative for homes built prior to 1978. These disclosures serve the dual purpose of protecting tenant health and safeguarding landlords from future liabilities.
The Legality of Oral Leases and Informal Rentals
Despite the perceived informality, oral lease agreements are recognized in Pennsylvania, continuing to grant rights and responsibilities to both parties involved. This extends to month-to-month tenancies which offer flexibility for both renters and landlords. Such arrangements typically require less commitment than long-term leases, yet they still call for adherence to basic tenancy laws. It's essential that both landlords and tenants remain cognizant of their rights under these less formal arrangements to maintain a harmonious living and renting situation. In essence, whether sealed by a handshake or a formal document, rental agreements in the Keystone State are subject to lease agreement Pennsylvania laws designed to uphold fairness and security within the housing market.
Renter's Rights Regarding Security Deposits in PA
Understanding security deposit laws PA is a critical component of a renter's knowledge base. In Pennsylvania, these laws are designed to balance the interests of the landlord with the tenant's right to fair treatment. Staying informed about these laws is key, especially when it comes to potential deductions from the deposit and the conditions of its return.
Maximum Deposit Limits and Interest Payments
The state of Pennsylvania has established clear limits on the amount a landlord can charge for a security deposit. During the first year of tenancy, this amount can be up to two months' rent. However, it should be reduced to just one month's rent for any subsequent years. After reaching the two-year mark, tenants are entitled to receive interest on their deposits, a vital tenet of tenant rights Pennsylvania that acknowledges the value of a renter's financial contribution over time.
Conditions for Deposit Deductions and Returns
Landlords are sometimes within their rights to withhold portions of a security deposit, but only for specific reasons allowed by state law. These reasons often include damages to the property beyond normal wear and tear, any unpaid rent, and violations of the lease agreement. Pennsylvania law mandates that landlords provide a detailed list accounting for any deductions, ensuring transparency in the process. Moreover, the return of these funds must be timely—another aspect that protects tenant interests under security deposit laws PA. Any failure to comply with these conditions can give rise to disputes, which may necessitate giving the tenant an eviction notice PA, although such extremities are usually a last resort after other reconciliation attempts have been exhausted.
Federal Fair Housing Act's Impact on PA Rentals
The Federal Fair Housing Act is a pivotal element of housing legislation that resonates deeply across the United States, playing a significant role in the dynamics of rental processes in Pennsylvania. By its mandate, discrimination in rental practices based on key protected traits -- namely color, disability, familial status, national origin, religion, race, and sex -- is not just discouraged but outright illegal. It's a regulation that carries substantial weight, striving to ensure that all would-be renters stand on equal footing when seeking accommodation.
Under the aegis of the Federal Fair Housing Act, Pennsylvania's rental landscape is steered towards a more equitable horizon. If you're navigating the intricacies involved with Pennsylvania Landlord Tenant Laws, understanding the influence of this federal act is not just beneficial, it's essential. Landlords have a legal and moral obligation to align their leasing policies with the act's provisions, fostering an inclusive environment that does not simply comply with the law but champions the spirit of equal housing.
Renter's rights in PA are further solidified under this federal umbrella, granting assurance and a peace of mind that comes with adequate legal protections. The pervasiveness of the Fair Housing Act shines a light on the need for an unprejudiced approach to leasing, where one's background becomes a nonfactor in securing a place of residence.
Ensuring adherence to the Federal Fair Housing Act not only safeguards against unlawful biases but enriches the fabric of communities, inviting a genuinely diverse population to lay down roots in Pennsylvania.
- Strict prohibition against rental discrimination
- Enforced equal housing opportunities for all
- Legal protection against biases during tenant selection
- Cultivation of diverse and vibrant communities
The landscape of renting in Pennsylvania has been undoubtedly shaped by this landmark federal law. For all players in the rental market, from landlords to future residents, the necessity of complying with the Federal Fair Housing Act cannot be overstated. As such, both a legal imperative and a cornerstone of ethical leasing practices, this act works in tandem with Pennsylvania Landlord Tenant Laws to sketch the contours of an equitable housing market, ensconced firmly within the bounds of justice and fair play.
Navigating the Pennsylvania Eviction Notice Requirements
To ensure a compliant and efficient eviction process in Pennsylvania, it is crucial for landlords to precisely understand and abide by the state's requirements regarding eviction notices. Adherence to these legal statutes not only protects property owners from potential legal disputes but also upholds the rights of tenants throughout the eviction process. A thorough grasp of the various eviction notice types and the required timelines for their delivery epitomizes the responsible execution of landlord obligations in PA.
Different Types of Eviction Notices
In Pennsylvania, the type of eviction notice required hinges on the specific grounds upon which the eviction is based. The primary categories of eviction notices involve scenarios of non-payment of rent, lease violations, and the natural conclusion of the tenancy term without lease renewal. Each circumstance necessitates a tailored eviction notice PA landlords must use:
- Pay or Quit Notice – This notice is for rent-related evictions, allowing tenants a window to pay the due rent before further eviction steps are taken.
- Cure or Quit Notice – Aimed at lease violations beyond non-payment, this notice gives the tenant the opportunity to correct the violation.
- Unconditional Quit Notice – Under severe violations like illegal activities, this notice demands that a tenant vacates without the chance to remedy the situation.
Timeline and Delivery of Notices
The effective execution of the eviction process Pennsylvania mandates is predicated upon the observance of strict timelines and proper delivery methods of eviction notices. Landlords must provide the eviction notice to their tenant well in advance of the intended date of eviction, with the timeline varying according to the underlying reason for the eviction:
- For non-payment of rent, the standard notice period is 10 days.
- Lease violations typically require giving the tenant 15 days to remedy the issue if they’ve been leasing for less than a year, and 30 days if it’s for a year or more.
- End-of-lease term notices demand a notice period of 15 to 30 days, based on tenancy duration.
It is incumbent upon landlords to assure that the notice is properly delivered to the tenant, which can occur through personal service, posting on the property in a conspicuous place, or via certified mail. Meticulous compliance with these regulations underpins the integrity of the eviction process and underscores the landlord obligations PA enforces to facilitate fair and lawful tenancy terminations.
Landlord Rights and Property Access in PA
In the complex interplay between landlords and tenants, understanding landlord rights PA is essential, particularly regarding property access. Pennsylvania Landlord Tenant Laws balance the right of the landlord to enter and maintain their property with the renter's rights PA to enjoy their rented space without unwarranted intrusion.
Setting Boundaries: Landlord's Right to Entry
Landlords in Pennsylvania have the legal right to enter the premises of their rental properties, but this right is not unfettered. A balance must be struck to respect the privacy of tenants while enabling landlords to perform necessary duties. The right to entry is typically reserved for specific conditions and must often be accompanied by appropriate notice to the tenant.
Maintenance, Inspections, and Emergencies
Maintenance and inspections are an integral part of upholding the safety and standards of a rental property. Pennsylvania laws permit landlords to enter a rental unit for such purposes, but except in cases of emergency, they must give reasonable notice—typically 24 hours. This policy ensures that landlords can fulfill their responsibilities while also respecting the tenant's rights to privacy and the peaceful enjoyment of their home.
- Property maintenance and necessary repairs
- Routine inspections to ensure compliance with health and safety codes
- Emergencies that require immediate access to prevent damage or address safety concerns
In all instances of planned entry, landlords must maintain a clear line of communication with their tenants to prevent misunderstandings and protect the trust essential to a positive landlord-tenant relationship.
Creating and Terminating Lease Agreements in PA
Both tenants and landlords in Pennsylvania need to be well-versed in the various factors that influence the creation and termination of lease agreements Pennsylvania. The stability of housing and the protection of tenant rights Pennsylvania largely depend on the proper structuring and understanding of these legal documents. Whether you're signing a new agreement or moving towards the termination of an existing one, knowing the legalities ensures a smoother transition for both parties.
It's important to note that Pennsylvania law recognizes both written and oral lease agreements. Written lease agreements offer a tangible record of the terms agreed upon, significantly minimizing potential disputes related to rent, maintenance responsibilities, and other critical lease terms. On the other hand, oral agreements, while legally binding, may lead to ambiguities and misunderstandings, often complicating matters should conflicts arise.
When the time comes to terminate a lease, Pennsylvania law requires landlords to follow a set legal process, including the issuance of an eviction notice PA under certain circumstances. The lease itself, along with state regulations, will determine the process for cessation of tenancy, which could vary based on numerous factors such as the duration of the tenancy, the reasons for termination, and whether the lease is fixed-term or at-will.
Understanding the nuances of leasing and eviction laws is instrumental in upholding a fair housing market and the respect of individual rights within the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.
- Written lease agreements provide clarity and concrete terms to prevent misunderstanding.
- Oral lease agreements, while valid, may require additional proof when disputes arise.
- The termination of tenancy in PA must adhere strictly to the specified legal processes outlined in state law.
- Eviction notices are a crucial component of the lease termination process and must be delivered in accordance with legal requirements.
Tenants and landlords alike must ensure that they follow these guidelines closely to foster a respectful landlord-tenant relationship. By maintaining an understanding of lease agreements and the procedures around their termination, all parties can contribute to a more stable and legally sound rental market in Pennsylvania.
Statutory Duties of Tenants in Pennsylvania
When renting a property in Pennsylvania, tenants are required by law to adhere to a set of specific obligations that ensure a well-maintained living space and uphold the lease terms. Grasping these tenant responsibilities in Pennsylvania is pivotal for all parties involved, as it lays the ground for a successful landlord-tenant relationship as outlined by Pennsylvania Landlord Tenant Laws. The legislation is clear in defining these roles to protect both the renters' habitation rights and the landlords' property interests.
Maintenance Obligations and Conduct Requirements
Tenants are legally bound to keep their dwelling clean, sanitary, and in good repair, which are key tenant responsibilities Pennsylvania residents must follow. This includes basic upkeep like disposing of trash properly, mitigating any damage caused by their personal neglect, and promptly informing the landlord of repair needs. Additionally, tenants are expected to adhere to the conduct set forth in the lease, respecting noise ordinances and community rules, creating a harmonious living environment for all.
Legal Ramifications of Tenant's Rights Violations
Failing to meet these obligations can lead to serious legal consequences for tenants under Pennsylvania Landlord Tenant Laws. Deductions from security deposits can occur to cover damages beyond normal wear and tear, unpaid utility bills, or other neglect. In more significant cases, such as continuous violations or damage, it may even result in eviction proceedings. It's essential for tenants to both comprehend and fulfill these responsibilities to safeguard their renter's rights PA and avoid any potential legal ramifications that disrupt their tenancy.
PA Rental Property Repair Laws and Tenant Remedies
In Pennsylvania, the symbiotic relationship between landlords and tenants is governed by established rental property repair laws that delineate landlord obligations PA and renter's rights PA. These laws ensure that tenants reside in safe and habitable environments, and detail the remedies available to tenants should they encounter habitability issues. An important aspect of tenant rights Pennsylvania includes the option to enact a 'repair and deduct' strategy, giving tenants a measure of control over their living conditions.
'Repair and Deduct' Strategies
PA rental laws empower tenants with a 'repair and deduct' option, allowing them to directly address essential repairs in certain situations. When immediate repair needs emerge, and a landlord is unresponsive or delayed in their duty to maintain the property, tenants may take matters into their own hands. This strategy requires tenants to inform their landlord of the defect and provides landlords with a reasonable timeframe to address the issue. If action is not taken adequately, tenants can proceed with the repairs and deduct the cost from their rent, provided the repairs meet specific legal criteria and the costs are justified.
Tenant Options for Addressing Habitability Issues
Tenants in Pennsylvania have several remedies at their disposal to deal with habitability concerns in their rentals. Primarily, reporting issues to the landlord is the first and most crucial step for a prompt resolution, as landlords are legally bound to maintain their properties under strict habitability standards. However, if the response is inadequate or lacking, tenants have the right to seek legal remedies. These may include but are not limited to, withholding rent until the problem is solved, or in extreme cases, breaking the lease without penalty. The legislation provides a structured approach to ensure tenants can live in a safe and compliant residence, safeguarding their well-being and living experience.
Conclusion
The intricate fabric of Pennsylvania Landlord Tenant Laws serves as the backbone for the state's rental market, ensuring that interactions between landlords and tenants are conducted within a fair and just framework. For landlords, fulsome knowledge of landlord obligations PA ensures that they furnish habitable homes and comply with all legal standards, underpinning the integrity of their operations. Tenants, vested with tenant rights Pennsylvania, are equally responsible for upholding their end of the bargain, fulfilling tenant responsibilities Pennsylvania by maintaining their leased premises and acting in accordance with their rental agreements.
Lease agreements, whether oral or written, dictate the formalities of the rental process. To that end, both parties should be conversant with the requirements under lease agreement Pennsylvania laws to preempt and resolve any disputes amicably. This becomes particularly vital when navigating the critical junctures of rental life - chiefly during the onset of and throughout the entire eviction process Pennsylvania. Whether it’s carefully crafting an eviction notice PA, or delineating the path to a peaceful resolution, adherence to protocol is paramount.
From the all-important security deposit laws PA to the daily nuance of renter's rights PA, each piece of legislation echoes the intent of a system designed to protect and serve both the proprietor and the occupant. Knowledge and observation of these statutes - landlord rights PA and the responsive tenant rights Pennsylvania - spells the difference between a fraught tenancy and a fruitful one. As such, remaining informed and vigilant of these state and federal guidelines is invaluable for all participating in Pennsylvania’s rental scene, ensuring legally sound and contented living arrangements.
FAQ
What are the main aspects of the Pennsylvania Landlord Tenant Laws?
The Pennsylvania Landlord Tenant Laws cover a wide range of aspects including the rights and duties of both landlords and tenants, security deposit regulations, eviction procedures, and maintenance of habitable living conditions. The laws are codified in "The Landlord and Tenant Act of 1951".
What obligations do landlords have in Pennsylvania?
Landlords in Pennsylvania are obligated to provide tenants with a safe and sanitary dwelling that adheres to building codes and habitability standards. This includes functioning heating, water, waste disposal systems, and secure premises. Landlords also need to adhere to the Fair Housing Act by maintaining fair practices in tenant selection.
What are tenant rights to privacy and habitable living conditions?
Tenant rights in Pennsylvania include the right to privacy, requiring landlords to provide notice before entering the rental unit, barring emergencies, and the right to habitable living conditions. This means the property must be safe and livable, adhering to all applicable housing and building codes.
How does the eviction process work in Pennsylvania?
The eviction process in Pennsylvania entails serving the tenant with the proper notice, which varies based on the reason for eviction. Legal grounds for eviction include non-payment of rent, violation of lease terms, and other serious breaches of the rental agreement. Landlords must follow specific legal procedures to evict a tenant.
Are oral leases valid in Pennsylvania?
Yes, oral leases are recognized in Pennsylvania, especially for month-to-month tenancies. However, for leases lasting longer than one year, written leases are recommended to provide clarity and are required for leases lasting more than three years.
How are security deposits handled in Pennsylvania?
Security deposit laws in PA restrict the amount landlords can collect to two months' rent for the first year and one month from the second year onward. Landlords must return the security deposit, minus deductions for damage beyond normal wear and tear, unpaid rent, or other lease violations, along with an itemized list of deductions, within the timeframe stipulated by state law.
What protections does the Federal Fair Housing Act provide for Pennsylvania tenants?
The Federal Fair Housing Act protects tenants in Pennsylvania from discrimination based on race, color, religion, national origin, sex, disability, or familial status when renting a property. This act works in conjunction with state laws to promote equitable housing practices.
What types of eviction notices are required in Pennsylvania?
Pennsylvania uses various eviction notices depending on the reason for eviction, which include notices for non-payment, lease violation, and end of lease term. Each type of notice has specific timeline requirements that must be followed to proceed with a legal eviction.
Can landlords enter the property without notice in Pennsylvania?
In Pennsylvania, landlords have the right to enter rental properties for maintenance and inspections but are generally required to provide reasonable notice to tenants, typically 24 hours, unless there is an emergency.
What are the legal ramifications if a tenant violates their responsibilities?
If tenants violate their responsibilities, such as causing damage to the property or not adhering to the lease terms, they can face legal repercussions like deductions from their security deposit, eviction, and potentially being held liable for damages in court.
How does the 'repair and deduct' clause work for tenants in Pennsylvania?
Pennsylvania tenants may use the 'repair and deduct' tactic under certain conditions. If a tenant has reported an issue that affects habitability and the landlord has not made necessary repairs within a reasonable time, the tenant may be able to repair the issue themselves and deduct the cost from their rent. However, specific legal requirements must be met to employ this strategy.