Landlord-Tenant Laws by State
Plain-English summaries of the rental rules renters and landlords search for most — security deposit limits, deposit-return deadlines, landlord entry notice, and month-to-month termination — for all 50 states and D.C., each with the governing statute so you can verify it.
Last reviewed July 8, 2026
Informational summaries, not legal advice. Laws change and local ordinances may add requirements. Verify the current statute or consult a licensed attorney before acting. All rentals must comply with the federal Fair Housing Act.
Choose your state
- Alabama
- Alaska
- Arizona
- Arkansas
- California
- Colorado
- Connecticut
- Delaware
- Florida
- Georgia
- Hawaii
- Idaho
- Illinois
- Indiana
- Iowa
- Kansas
- Kentucky
- Louisiana
- Maine
- Maryland
- Massachusetts
- Michigan
- Minnesota
- Mississippi
- Missouri
- Montana
- Nebraska
- Nevada
- New Hampshire
- New Jersey
- New Mexico
- New York
- North Carolina
- North Dakota
- Ohio
- Oklahoma
- Oregon
- Pennsylvania
- Rhode Island
- South Carolina
- South Dakota
- Tennessee
- Texas
- Utah
- Vermont
- Virginia
- Washington
- Washington, D.C.
- West Virginia
- Wisconsin
- Wyoming
Rental laws — common questions
Do landlord-tenant laws vary by state?
Yes. Security deposit limits, return deadlines, entry-notice requirements, and termination rules are set by each state (and sometimes city). Pick your state below for a plain-English summary with the governing statute.
Is this legal advice?
No. These are general educational summaries, not legal advice, and may not reflect the latest changes or local ordinances. Verify the current statute or consult a licensed attorney before acting.