The Rent is High Know Your Rights

STEPHANIE A. KOCHER, ASSOCIATE ATTORNEY, CROSSON RICHETTI & DAIGLE LLC.

Jimmy McMillan may not be a household name, but he made quite a stir in 2010 when he entered the running for New York Governor as a candidate for the “Rent is Too Damn High” party. Although Mr. McMillan’s political career did not get very far, his mantra has stuck. It has been twelve years, and Mr. McMillan's words still resonate with many.

You may have seen recent local news stories or reports that the Lehigh Valley is now one of the most overpriced rental markets in the country. According to Rent.com, the average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Allentown is over $1,900. In Bethlehem and Easton, it is over $1,700. When the pandemic hit, the housing market became unpredictable. The CDC placed a hold on eviction, and individuals took advantage of low-interest rates, purchasing homes either for themselves or as rental units. Even if you weren’t the one affected by the rental market, you probably know someone who was, or at least saw them complaining about it on social media.

In this ever-changing market, it is vitally important for both renters and landlords to know their rights.

Whether you are a renter or a landlord, the most important thing you can do is have a current, written, and signed lease. Form rental agreements can be found online but having an attorney who is knowledgeable about leases and contracts draft and review the lease will be the best way to ensure that your rights are protected. Be sure you read all parts of the lease before signing and if you don’t understand any part of the lease, consult with your attorney. One thing an attorney never wants to hear is that you didn’t read the document before signing it. By signing a contract, you are stating that you agree to and accept the terms as they are written. If you are a tenant, ask for a copy of the signed agreement immediately and keep it in a place that is easily accessible to you.

When a lease expires, the lease automatically renews on a month-to-month basis. However, the lease may provide other terms. Mark your calendar and get a newly signed agreement prior to the expiration of the lease. If you don’t want to renew your lease, be sure to check the provisions on how much notice you must give before terminating.

Although a written and signed lease helps protect both parties from costly litigation, disputes still arise.

The laws governing the landlord/tenant relationship in Pennsylvania can be found in the Landlord and Tenant