Your landlord can’t do this ❌

Hey there

Another Tuesday, another dose of legal wisdom you can use to impress your friends and (most importantly) protect your rights. 

Today, we’re gonna talk about lousy landlords and lousy lawyers. 

Let’s get into it...

3 things your landlord CANNOT do

As a lawyer, you hear endless horror stories of shady landlords.

We’re talking landlords that let themselves in your house unannounced. We’re talking landlords that raise rent out of the blue. We’re talking landlords that’ll ghost you like your high school crush when the roof’s leaking. 

If you haven’t already had a shady landlord, chances are one’s coming. 

The good news? You’ve got rights. Here are three things your landlord absolutely cannot do.

1. Let you live in unsafe conditions

Your landlord is legally required to provide a safe and livable home. 

Most states have what’s called the “implied warranty of habitability.” Fancy name, simple rule: if it’s broken, dangerous, or unfit to live in, they have to fix it.

This means no:

• Mold creeping up your walls.

• Broken heating in the middle of winter.

• A leaky roof that turns your apartment into the Everglades.

• Cockroaches throwing a rave in your kitchen.

If your landlord isn’t addressing major problems, check your state’s tenant laws. In many places, you can withhold rent or even pay for repairs yourself and deduct the cost (just document everything).

But know this: If the issue is your fault, like a clogged toilet thanks to your toddler’s fascination with flushing toys, you’re on the hook for repairs.

2. Raise your rent when they feel like it

Rent increases can’t come out of nowhere.

If you’re in a rent-controlled area (like California or NYC), strict laws regulate how much your landlord can raise rent and how often.

Even outside rent-controlled zones, they likely have to follow these rules:

• During a lease: If you’re on a fixed-term lease, your rent is usually locked in until the lease is up. The only way it can go up mid-lease is if your lease agreement says it’s okay.

• Without proper notice: If you’re renting month-to-month, your landlord has to give you a proper written heads-up before raising the rent... usually at least 30 days (depending on where you live). 

• As retaliation: Landlords can’t use a rent hike to punish you for standing up for your rights (like reporting unsafe conditions).

3. Waltz into your home without letting you know

Your landlord can’t just barge into your home whenever they feel like it. Whether it’s a casual drop-in or a sudden "inspection," you have a right to privacy.

Most state laws allow landlords to enter only under specific circumstances, like:

• Emergencies: If there’s a genuine issue, like a burst pipe or a fire, they can enter without notice.

• Necessary Repairs: For non-urgent maintenance, they need to give you advance notice (usually 24-48 hours, depending on your state).

• Showings: If you’re moving out or the property is being sold, they can schedule visits, but they still have to respect your privacy with proper notice and reasonable hours.

If your landlord keeps crossing the line, remind them of your rights.

How well do you know your Renters’ Rights?

When you see how powerful your rights are against lousy landlords, you understand how important it is to know them inside-out. 

I’m putting together some easy-to-follow guides on your rights as a renter to keep you one step ahead at all times.

Want early access? Hop on the waitlist here!

How to spot a lousy lawyer

You know what they say... choosing a good lawyer is expensive. But there’s nothing more expensive than a bad lawyer.

Here’s how to spot the duds and find someone who’s actually worth your time (and money):

1. Track record: Are they battle-tested?

Good lawyer: They’ve got the wins to prove it. A solid lawyer will proudly showcase their victories. Think trial wins and detailed case studies on their website.

Bad lawyer: Crickets. No testimonials, no case studies, and a website that looks like it was made in the ‘90s? Could be a sign of limited experience.

2. Transparent fees: Can you trust them?

Good lawyer: They lay it all out from the start. Hourly fees, flat rates, or contingency plans. No surprises, no hidden costs. They’ll even break down invoices so you know exactly what you’re paying for.

Bad lawyer: Vague about fees? Big red flag. If they dodge questions about billing or seem wishy-washy, you’re likely in for a rude awakening when the invoice lands.

3. The #1 red flag for a lousy lawyer

Above all, there’s one thing that all bad lawyers have in common - something right under your nose. Let me break it down for you in this video so you know exactly what to watch out for.

That’s it for today. Until next Tuesday, this case is closed.

Speak soon

Mike