1.   Know Your State Laws - Every state has its own set of Landlord-Tenant Laws designed to protect renters and outline the responsibilities of landlords. Understanding these laws is essential for securing safe and fair housing. Here's what to look for in your state’s laws so that you can navigate your rights effectively:

o   Tenant Rights:

• Safety standards for rental properties (e.g., smoke detectors, structural integrity).

• Rights to privacy (e.g., required notice before entry).

• Procedures for withholding rent if repairs aren't made.

o   Landlord Responsibilities:

• Maintenance obligations (e.g., fixing heating, plumbing, or electrical issues).

• Timely responses to repair requests.

• Compliance with local building and safety codes.

• Lease Agreements:

• Required disclosures (e.g., past damage, lead paint hazards).

• Rules for deposits, rent increases, and lease termination.

o   Eviction Procedures: Legal eviction processes to protect tenants from unlawful removal.

2.  How to Learn Your State’ Laws

o   State Government Websites: Visit your state’s Department of Housing or Consumer Protection website for official guidelines.

o   Tenant Rights Guides: Look for easy-to-understand publications summarizing local laws. Oftentimes a city or town’s local codes and ordinances offer more protection for tenants than their respective state’s laws. Maintaining a working knowledge of safety codes will ensure you can promptly bring any potential violations to your landlord’s attention.

1. Key Focus Areas: Fire alarms, carbon monoxide detectors, structural integrity, plumbing/sewage, gas, and electrical systems.

2. Click here for a safety checklist to review before signing a lease.

3. Click here for common signs of negligent landlords or hazardous living conditions.

1.    Fire Safety:

• Ensure smoke detectors are installed in every bedroom, hallway, and common area.

• Test smoke detectors to verify they are functional.

• Make sure carbon monoxide detectors are near bedrooms and fuel-burning appliances.

• Confirm there is at least one up-to-date fire extinguisher, preferably in the kitchen and near exits.

• Very there are at least two clear exit routes from the property and that windows and doors open easily without obstruction.
  

2.       Gas and Carbon Monoxide Awareness:

• Make sure carbon monoxide detectors are near bedrooms and fuel-burning appliances.

• Know the warning signs of a gas leak.
  - Smell: A distinct "rotten egg" or sulfur odor is often added to natural gas as a safety measure to alert you of leaks.
  -Sound: A hissing or whistling sound near gas lines, appliances, or the meter may indicate a leak.

• Inspect the gas appliances have undamaged connections and pilot lights are burning consistently blue.

• Know the warning signs of a gas leak.

• Avoid storing items near gas meters, lines, or appliances, as they can obstruct ventilation or damage connections.

• Familiarize yourself with the gas shut-off valve’s location and how to use it in an emergency. Usually, it’s near the gas meter.

• Evacuate the property immediately if you notice any signs of a gas leak. Call your gas company’s emergency line or 911 once you’re safely outside.

• Trust your instincts: If something doesn’t feel right, take it seriously and act quickly.

3.       Personal Safety Tips:

• Inspect all locks on doors, sliding doors, and windows.

• Ensure your landlord maintains exterior lighting and fixes locks promptly when requested.

• Research the areas using online tools to review crime rates and safety reports for the neighborhood.

• Introduce yourself to neighbors to build a sense of community and mutual awareness.

• Familiarize yourself with the nearest police station, fire department, and hospital.

1. Understand Your Duties - It is imperative that landlords educate themselves on their state and municipality’s laws, codes, and ordinances, to ensure safe housing for all.

2. Landlord Associations - Carly’s Cause encourages landlords to explore the opportunities offered by local or national organizations, and obtain continued education, as well as certifications, relating to safe, secure, housing.

1. Stop. Ask a Lawyer! - Have a question about a provision in a prospective lease? Do you believe your landlord has breached a duty owed to you or your child? Carly’s Cause recommends speaking with an attorney if you believe a potential issue has arisen or may arise.

2. Know Where to Go - Every state, and most counties, offer free legal services through their affiliated Bar Association. Understanding where to go when a problem arises will help to ease some of the stress in a landlord/tenant dispute.

3. University Housing Offices - Your college or university’s housing office is an invaluable resource for finding safe off-campus housing. They often provide tools to help you navigate the process, including access to free legal services such as lease review or support with landlord/tenant disputes.