Privacy Tips for New Renters

Personal privacy is one of the issues that any person renting can encounter. The lease that is signed for a property might be short and to the point or too long to understand. Privacy as a renter usually comes from state, federal and public policies that each state requires inside lease agreements. Knowing some basics about privacy can help you on your way to renting a home in any city. While the following information is not considered or implied legal advice, it can be helpful to explore.

3 Privacy Tips for New Renters

1. Find out if a landlord uses a tenant report
2. Know what questions landlords can’t ask
3. Understand landlord right to enter

What is a Tenant Report?

A tenant report is a new piece of documentation that is used in the rental industry. It is similar to a credit report and is prepared by some credit bureaus. This information is provided to landlords and property owners to help make decisions about renting to men and women.

These reports are used as a screening device to disqualify a person with a low rental score. The Fair Credit Reporting Act specifies what can be extracted from a tenant report and these could be made available to a person who asks depending on the laws in their state.

Questions Landlords Can Never Ask

Discrimination is protected against in the rental industry at the state and national level. There are basic questions that are listed on rental applications that are deemed appropriate for landlords to ask a potential renter. There are some questions that can’t be asked to any person inquiring about a rental home.

Some states have privacy laws that a landlord or property owner cannot cross. Questions that ask about your race, gender, sexual orientation, actual source of income, marital status, mental disabilities and other personal information. Every state has legislation that protects renters from forms of discrimination.

Landlord Right to Enter

All states have privacy in place to protect tenants from unlawful entry of a landlord. Most states require a notice to be provided in advance of a visit, rent collection or repair assessment. Some states allow a landlord the right of entry to protect the premises if a threat is uncovered.

The state of Florida requires a minimum of 12 hours of notice before entry for general purposes or inspections. Long-term tenant absence can also be included in right of entry laws. Knowing the right of entry can help increase security when renting any property.

Jacksonville Houses for Rent

Renting a home for market rent or below rent is possible through the resources found on this page. The housing portfolio that is displayed to the public features homes that are upgraded and ready for occupancy. The JWB Rental Home agreements or showings can be arranged using the contact tools on this page.