Tenant Rights Glossary

Code violation

A documented breach of building, health, or safety codes — like missing smoke detectors, broken heat, or pest infestation.

Constructive eviction

A doctrine that lets a tenant treat a lease as broken and move out when the landlord makes the unit uninhabitable.

Eviction

The legal process by which a landlord removes a tenant — strictly governed by state law and almost always requires a court order.

Habitability

The legal requirement that rental units be safe and livable — heat, water, working plumbing and electrical, no major health hazards.

Lease

The contract between landlord and tenant defining the rental terms — rent, duration, deposit, and the parties’ rights and obligations.

Quiet enjoyment

A tenant’s legal right to use and enjoy a rental without unreasonable interference from the landlord or other tenants.

Rent control

Local laws limiting how much a landlord can raise rent on certain rental units, usually combined with just-cause eviction protections.

Renters insurance

A policy covering a tenant’s personal property and liability — the landlord’s insurance does not cover your stuff.

Security deposit

Money a landlord holds at lease signing to cover unpaid rent or damage, refundable when you move out if the unit is in acceptable condition.

Slumlord

Slang for a landlord who systematically neglects properties — ignoring repairs, code violations, and tenant safety while still collecting rent.

Sublet

Renting your unit (or a room in it) to someone else while you remain on the lease — often requires landlord approval.

Tenant rights

The bundle of legal protections renters have under federal, state, and local law — including habitability, anti-discrimination, and due process.

Educational, not legal advice. Tenant law varies by state and city.