In the state of Alabama, the Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act regulates the use and rental of apartments. The law attempts to provide the best protection for tenants and landlords.
Rental Agreements
Rental agreements are legal contracts that stipulate the terms of the rental; however, they are not necessary. Alabama law states that, if there is no written agreement, the tenant shall pay a fair rental value at the beginning of each month, whether or not the landlord physically demands the rent.
Tenant Obligations
Tenants are held by Alabama law to responsibly care for the apartments that they rent. Waste must be disposed of, property must be left unharmed, utilities used responsibly and the rental agreement rules must be followed.
Landlord Obligations
State law requires landlords to provide running water, heat and any other necessary utilities. A landlord who withholds these services will have to pay damages to the tenant. The maximum amount of security deposit that can be collected is one month's rent. A landlord is also responsible for ensuring that an apartment meets housing codes and is not dangerous.
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