As a tenant, it is important to be aware of your rights when it comes to renting a property. One crucial aspect of renting is the agreement between the landlord and tenant. While written agreements are commonly used in rental agreements, verbal agreements are also binding under the law. Here’s what you need to know about your tenant rights in a verbal agreement.
1. What is a verbal agreement?
A verbal lease agreement is a legally-binding agreement between a landlord and a tenant in which the terms and conditions of a rental lease are agreed upon verbally instead of being put in writing. It may be as simple as a conversation between the landlord and the tenant about the terms of the rental agreement.
2. What are the terms of a verbal agreement?
The terms of a verbal agreement are the same as those in a written agreement and include the rental period, rental amount, and security deposit, as well as terms regarding repairs, maintenance, and other responsibilities of both the landlord and tenant.
3. What happens if there is a dispute?
If there is a dispute between the landlord and tenant regarding the terms of the verbal agreement, it may be difficult to prove the terms agreed upon. Therefore, it is recommended to have a written agreement to avoid disputes.
4. What are the obligations of the landlord?
In a verbal agreement, the landlord is obligated to maintain the rental property and ensure that it meets all health and safety standards. The landlord must also provide a safe and secure environment for the tenant.
5. What are the obligations of the tenant?
The tenant must pay rent on time, maintain the rental property, and use the property for its intended purpose. The tenant is also responsible for informing the landlord of any maintenance or repair issues.
6. Can a landlord evict a tenant with a verbal agreement?
Yes, a landlord can evict a tenant with a verbal agreement. However, the landlord must follow state and local laws regarding eviction and provide a written notice of eviction.
7. Can a tenant terminate a verbal agreement?
Yes, a tenant can terminate a verbal agreement by giving the landlord proper notice according to state and local laws.
8. How can a tenant protect their rights in a verbal agreement?
To protect their rights in a verbal agreement, tenants should document any conversations with their landlord, including dates, times, and details of the conversation. They should also keep a record of rent payments and any repairs or maintenance that they have requested.
9. Is it recommended to have a written agreement?
Yes, it is highly recommended to have a written agreement to avoid disputes and to protect the rights of both the landlord and the tenant. A written agreement should include all terms and conditions of the rental agreement and be signed by both parties.
10. What should a tenant do if they want to formalize a verbal agreement?
If a tenant wants to formalize a verbal agreement, they should request a written agreement from their landlord. The written agreement should include the terms agreed upon in the verbal agreement and be signed by both parties.
In conclusion, verbal agreements can be binding under the law, but it is recommended to have a written agreement to avoid disputes and protect the rights of both the landlord and tenant. Tenants should be aware of their rights and obligations in a verbal agreement and document all conversations with their landlord. It is always better to be safe than sorry.
