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Are you a tenant in Oregon? Do you know your rights when it comes to renting a property? It’s important to understand what a landlord cannot do in Oregon to protect yourself as a renter. Here are some key things to keep in mind:
1. Discriminate Against Tenants
A landlord in Oregon cannot discriminate against tenants based on factors such as race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, marital status, familial status, source of income, or disability. This is protected under the Fair Housing Act.
2. Improperly Evict a Tenant
A landlord must follow the proper legal procedures and provide notice before evicting a tenant in Oregon. They cannot engage in self-help eviction, such as changing the locks or shutting off utilities without a court order.
3. Enter a Rental Property Without Notice
A landlord must provide proper notice before entering a rented premises in Oregon. Typically, they must give at least 24 hours’ notice before entering for non-emergency reasons. Tenants have the right to quiet enjoyment of their home.
4. Retaliate Against a Tenant
A landlord cannot retaliate against a tenant for exercising their legal rights, such as complaining about living conditions or requesting repairs. Retaliation can include increasing rent, decreasing services, or attempting to evict a tenant unlawfully.
5. Withhold Security Deposit Unfairly
When a tenant moves out, the landlord must return the security deposit within a reasonable timeframe and provide an itemized list of any deductions. They cannot withhold the deposit unfairly or without legitimate reasons specified in the lease agreement.
6. Raise Rent Without Proper Notice
A landlord in Oregon must provide proper notice before increasing rent. The amount of notice required depends on the length of the lease agreement. Rent increases cannot be used as a form of retaliation against a tenant.
7. Violate the Warranty of Habitability
Landlords in Oregon are required to maintain rental properties in a habitable condition. They must provide essential services such as heating, plumbing, and electricity. If a landlord fails to address significant repair issues, tenants may have legal recourse.
8. Discriminate in the Application Process
During the rental application process, a landlord cannot discriminate against applicants based on the protected characteristics mentioned earlier. All applicants must be treated fairly and equally in accordance with the Fair Housing Act.
9. Charge Unauthorized Fees
A landlord cannot charge tenants for fees that are not allowed under Oregon law or the rental agreement. Examples of unauthorized fees include excessive late fees, cleaning fees not specified in the lease, and pet fees when pets are not allowed.
10. Violate Lease Agreements
Landlords must adhere to the terms of the lease agreement signed with the tenant. They cannot unilaterally change the terms of the lease without the tenant’s consent. Any modifications to the lease agreement must be mutually agreed upon in writing.
Knowing what a landlord cannot do in Oregon is crucial for tenants to protect their rights. If you believe your landlord has violated any of these rules, you may seek legal advice or assistance to address the issue.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can A Landlord Evict A Tenant Without Cause In Oregon?
No, it is illegal for a landlord to evict a tenant without a valid reason in Oregon. There are specific grounds for eviction outlined in the law.
How Much Notice Does A Landlord Have To Give For Eviction In Oregon?
In Oregon, a landlord must provide a written notice to a tenant at least 30 days before initiating the eviction process.
Can A Landlord Increase The Rent Without Notice In Oregon?
No, a landlord in Oregon cannot increase the rent without providing the tenant with a written notice at least 90 days before the proposed increase.
Is It Legal For A Landlord To Discriminate Against Tenants In Oregon?
No, it is illegal for a landlord in Oregon to discriminate against tenants based on their race, color, national origin, religion, sex, disability, familial status, or source of income.
Conclusion
Understanding your rights as a tenant in Oregon is crucial for ensuring fair and lawful treatment by landlords. By knowing what a landlord cannot do in Oregon, renters can protect themselves from discrimination, improper eviction practices, and other potential violations. From non-discriminatory rental application processes to the proper handling of security deposits, tenants are entitled to certain protections under state and federal laws. If tenants believe their rights have been infringed upon, seeking legal advice or assistance can help address any issues with landlords. Ultimately, knowing and asserting these rights empowers tenants to maintain a safe and secure living environment in rental properties across Oregon.
