Ithaca Apartment Rentals - Tenants' Rights

Because of possible liability ramifications we do not offer legal advice on the site; however the links below should provide the information you need:

Just as a tenant has certain duties that they must fulfill, so does the landlord. One of the first duties a landlord must observe is to comply with all federal and state laws such as the implied warranty of habitability, which states that any rented property must meet basic standards of human habitation, and the Fair Housing Act, which outlaws discriminatory leasing policies.

New York State Attorney General Eliot Spitzer- Offers the New York State tenants rights guide. Renters are protected by a variety of Federal, State and local laws. The state Attorney General’s office offers a pamphlet regarding tenants rights, www.oag.state.ny.us

Before you sign a lease
Selecting an apartment in Ithaca to live is both an important and an exciting experience. The challenge should not be taken lightly. Here are some ideas to keep in mind before you sign.

Security deposit
Before moving into a ithaca rental make sure to note items that are missing and specifically detail all damages noticed. Make and sign a list of any agreed upon repairs that are to be done. Both you and the apartment landlord should sign and date these documents. An additional percaution may be to, take photos of the interior of the unit before moving in. When moving out, revisit this housing inventory with the landlord. Also you may want to take pictures before leaving in case questions arise later.

Renter’s insurance
A landlord’s insurance protects the structure but not the renter’s personal property. If you have any personal items of value you should consider renter’s insurance. Renter’s insurance provides you with protection for your personal belonging if they are stolen or destroyed by fire or other covered cause of loss. Please feel free to visit our Ithaca Merchants page for local Insurance companies that offer Renters insurance

Dispute resolution
Although the best way to avoid any conflict is to have a clear idea of what is expected by all parties prior to signing a lease, some disagreements may still arise. For these cases there are local agencies available to help.

Tompkins County
Landlord and Tenant Dispute Resolution: 607.273.9347