Can a tenant break a lease due to Domestic Violence?
The first thing a landlord should do is to check local state laws, and if applicable, any local statues that cover domestic abuse and tenant rights. Under most landlord-tenant laws the tenant cannot be excused from paying rent when he/she breaks a lease before it expires. But many states have passed legislation giving domestic abuse victims the right to break a lease without penalty or paying future rent. Some of the states such as Oregon, New York, Washington, Minnesolta, North Carolina and others are on this list. Many require the victim notify the landlord of intention to terminate the lease. Some require 30 or 60 days notice. Some require proof of abuse, such as a protective order or police report. Again make sure to check your state's landlord-tenant laws.
I have seen in my days of property management, owners are very understanding and in some cases have taken a financial loss in these type of circumstances. A person's life and well-being is way more important.
October
Domestic Violence Awareness Month
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Kathryn
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