Moving to a new home in the United States can be an exciting yet challenging experience, often driven by various reasons such as career opportunities, family needs, or a desire for a change of scenery.
Whether relocating for a new job or seeking better school districts, the process usually involves significant financial and physical effort. Unlike in the Philippines, where agreements may be informal, renting in the U.S. follows strict legal rules that protect both tenants and landlords.
Costs can range from hiring professional movers, purchasing packing supplies, and paying for transportation to downpayments on a new home and appliance upgrades.
Additionally, there’s that emotional aspect of bidding the old friends and neighborhood goodbye. And time investment required in organizing, packing, and settling into a new environment can be overwhelming. Despite these challenges, a successful move can lead to opportunities for personal and family growth.
To maintain peace of mind and save a moving household from unnecessary headaches, here are the common tenant rights every renter needs to know:
Right to a habitable home
Landlords must provide a safe and livable home. This means that the property must have a working plumbing, electricity, and heating/cooling systems by the time of move.
There must be no infestations such as cockroaches, bedbugs or rats and home has safe structural integrity: no leaks, broken stairs, or mold present.
So if your apartment has no heating during winter, your landlord must fix it quickly. If they refuse, you may have the right to withhold rent or take legal action. If repairs are needed, always communicate in writing (email or text) so you have proof of your request.
Protection against discrimination
According to US Fair Housing Act, it is illegal for landlords to refuse rent to someone based on race or nationality (e.g., being Filipino), religion, family status such as having kids or disability.
If a landlord tells you, “We don’t rent to people with kids,” this is illegal discrimination. You can file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. If you suspect discrimination, keep all written communication and ask for everything in writing.
Right to privacy
Landlords cannot enter your rental home whenever they want without prior permission. Most states require them to give at least 24 hours’ notice before entry, except for emergencies (like a gas leak).
If your landlord shows up unannounced and enters your unit without permission, you can report them for violating your privacy rights. Review your lease agreement for state-specific rules on landlord entry.
Right to a security deposit refund
Most landlords require a security deposit before you move in, typically between one and three months’ worth of rent. This money should be refunded when you move out, as long as you don’t cause major damage.
However, common deductions from the security deposit are allowed on unpaid rent or damage beyond normal wear and tear (e.g., holes in walls, broken windows).
But if you turn over the key to the apartment clean with no damage, your landlord must return your deposit within 14-60 days, depending on your state’s law. If they don’t, you can take legal action.
It is therefore a good idea before moving in to take pictures of everything and send them to your landlord as proof of the apartment’s original condition.
Right to repairs and maintenance
Your landlord is responsible for fixing essential services like:
- Broken toilets, sinks, or showers
- Heating and air conditioning issues
- Electrical problems (e.g., power outlets not working)
For instance, if your heater stops working in winter, your landlord must fix it within a reasonable time (often 24-72 hours, depending on local laws).
If they ignore your request, you can file a complaint with local housing authorities. In some states, withhold rent or pay for the repairs yourself and deduct the cost from your rent (check your state’s tenant laws first).
Protection against unfair eviction
A landlord cannot evict you without following legal procedures. They must give proper notice usually 30-60 days for lease violations or non-renewal, file a court case if you refuse to leave and obtain a court order before forcing you out.
For example, if you are late on rent, the landlord must first give you a written notice to pay within a certain number of days (e.g., 3-5 days). They cannot lock you out or throw your belongings on the street without a court order.
If you receive an eviction notice, don’t panic. You can negotiate with your landlord for an extension. You can also seek legal aid; many states offer free tenant assistance and attend the eviction hearing — some judges allow repayment plans.
Right to know about rent increases
Landlords cannot increase your rent suddenly or without notice. The rules depend on lease type – If you have a fixed-term lease (e.g., 1 year), your rent cannot go up until renewal. Rules can also depend on state laws. Some cities (like New York and San Francisco) have rent control laws, limiting increases.
So if your landlord tries to raise rent by 20% with only a week’s notice, check your lease—they may be breaking the law. If you’re on a month-to-month lease, rent can increase, but landlords must give at least 30-60 days’ notice, depending on state law.
What to do if your landlord violates your rights
If your landlord refuses to follow the law, you have options:
- Contact your local housing authority – Many cities have renter assistance programs.
- File a complaint with HUD – If you face discrimination.
- Seek legal aid – Many nonprofit organizations offer free legal help to tenants.
- Document everything – Save texts, emails, and take photos of any issues.
Final tip for newcomers
Many Filipinos in the U.S. don’t know their tenant rights and end up accepting unfair treatment. The best way to protect yourself is to read your lease carefully before signing. Also keep everything in writing and avoid verbal agreements. Be aware and know your state’s tenant laws as rules may vary by US state.