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Understanding Lead Based Paint Disclosure Forms

Monday, August 24th, 2009

Renting older apartments can sometimes present an unexpected problem: lead-based paint. While any apartment building built after 1978 should be completely free of lead paint, older buildings may have lead-based paint hazards. In order to make sure that tenants are aware of any such risks, landlords are required to tell you if there is a chance that lead-based paint was used in your apartment. You are typically given a disclosure form to sign along with your lease, showing that you…

Six Tips for Negotiating a Better Lease Agreement

Friday, November 6th, 2009

Going over a lease agreement is a critical part of entering into a business relationship between a landlord and tenant. When it’s time to open the books to look at the lease agreement, there is a lot that a tenant can do to negotiate a better deal. Here are some of the ways to use lease term dialogue to improve a lease agreement before signing.

1. Provide Proof of Assets, Income and other Assurance

Above all, the landlord simply wants to know…

I am a Victim of Disability Discrimination, What Can I Do?

Thursday, November 5th, 2009

Despite legislation designed to protect you from housing discrimination, disability discrimination is still common. Fortunately, you have recourse. By understanding your rights and knowing how to assert them, you can rectify the situation when your rights have been violated.

Disability Discrimination in Housing Laws

In the U.S., the Fair Housing Act (FHA) is the federal law that protects certain groups of people from housing discrimination. Disability is one of the protected classes under this law. As a disabled person, the FHA grants…

What to Include in a Roommate Agreement

Wednesday, November 4th, 2009

So you and your roommate have taken the first step and decided to create a roommate agreement. As you begin drafting the document, it’s best to sit down and make a list of all issues to be covered. No issue is too big or too small, and the more comprehensive you make the agreement, the better off everyone will be. To get you started, here are some of the key issues the agreement should cover.

All Processes and Rules Surrounding Paying…

What Lease Attorneys Can Do for You

Monday, November 2nd, 2009

The primary function of residential lease attorneys is to help tenants understand their rights under a written lease agreement or tenant contract. The landlord generally utilizes legal counsel when he or she writes the lease. There are a number of major issues that a lease attorney can help with for tenants who feel they are being treated unfairly.

Housing Discrimination

One issue is discrimination in a rental application process. A lease attorney can tell a client if they have a case under…