Do renter rights differ from state to state?

The rights of renters and landlords do vary from state to state. The laws vary from landlord access to rental property to the regulation of security deposits. Other laws that vary from state to state include rental forms and agreements, tenant rights and how to resolve disputes with landlords.

The Fair Housing Act is a law that is enforceable in all states, and this act regulates discriminatory practices in housing. Under this law, a landlord may not discriminate against potential tenants or tenants, based on family status, ethnicity, disability, gender, race or religion. This act also mandates that landlords make reasonable accommodations for tenants who are disabled.