Renting can often feel overwhelming, with many details to navigate, from the application process to preparing for move-out. We've put in the effort to address some of the most common questions renters have. We hope you find this information valuable and easy to understand.
What to Know Before You Rent
Whether you're a first-time renter or a seasoned pro, you likely have questions when applying for a rental home. The section below provides helpful information on the application process, how to protect yourself from rental fraud, tips for communicating with potential landlords, and more.
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Is the application process frustrating and causing you some confusion? This section has information on what to reasonably expect when applying for a new rental unit. Don't forget to ask what fees you may be responsible for on top of your rent payment so you can properly budget for the unit.
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This section highlights key things to watch out for to help protect yourself from rental fraud.
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This section explains common lease terms and highlights important details to look for in your lease agreement.
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This section covers important things to remember when renting a unit, such as thoroughly reading your lease agreement, paying rent on time, and adhering to the terms outlined in your lease.
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If you have a disability and are in need of assistance please reach out to the Utah Disability Law Center
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Do you feel like you are being discriminated against, please take a look at this section to see how you can contact the Utah Antidiscrimination & Labor Division
How to be a Successful Tenant
In this section, you'll find valuable resources to help you be a successful tenant. Topics include building a strong relationship with your landlord, understanding your responsibilities as a tenant, and handling emergencies.
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This section explains how to establish a strong, professional relationship with your landlord through clear and open communication.
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This list outlines common responsibilities of tenants. Keep in mind that it may not be exhaustive, so always review your lease agreement to ensure you're meeting all obligations and protecting your housing.
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When an emergency or a problem comes up we often enter the fight, flight or freeze mode. This section will guide you in creating a plan to handle problems effectively when they occur.
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What should you do if your housing is at risk? The key is to have a plan in place. This section walks you through how to create an emergency housing plan.
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What does the Utah Fit Premises Act: Habitability mean for you? This section explains your rights and responsibilities regarding the habitability of your rental property under Utah law.
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What does "peaceful enjoyment" mean? How often can your landlord enter your unit, and what are the exceptions? This section clarifies your rights to privacy and the circumstances under which a landlord may enter your rental property.
Preparing to Leave
Your lease has ended, or you've received an eviction notice. This section explains the steps you need to take to inform your landlord that you won't be renewing your lease, as well as what to do if you are served with an eviction notice.
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In this section we help you figure out how and when you need to give your notice to the landlord or property manager that you are not renewing your lease agreement
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Are you unsure on what you need to do to get your deposit back from your property manager or landlord? This section walks you through what you need to do to have the highest chance of receiving your deposit back.
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What happens if you abandon your apartment? What about your items, how are they handled?
Eviction
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Unsure how the eviction process works in Utah, click on the link for more information.
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You have been served an eviction notice but you are unsure why you were served, or maybe you just don't know what to do. Learn more here
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This chart shows the different steps that take place in an eviction.
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In this section it shows the different types of evictions that can be filed such as; Failure to Pay, Lease Violations, Nuisance and more.
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Learn more
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There are three different types of eviction expungement in Utah. This worksheet talks about the three different types and what conditions are necessary to qualify for each expungement type.
Resources
In this section you will find many resources you may need while renting, from programs and services, sample documents, and agency resources.
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Do you think you have been a victim of sexual harassment by your landlord or property manager? Sexual Harassment is illegal please download or view this document to get more information on what to do if you think you have been a victim of sexual harassment.
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Check out all the things that the Self-Help Center at the Utah State Courts can do and how you can get in touch with them.
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Utah Community Action has many programs tailored to our local communities needs.
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Are you trying to get a refund for your apartment application fee? Please see this sample form for instructions and what you need to do to qualify for a refund.
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You have moved out and you have done everything needed to receive your deposit back, but you haven't heard from your landlord or property manager. This form allows you to submit a notice to your landlord to request the deposit refund.
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Are you having trouble getting your landlord or property manager to fix issues in your unit? Please see this sample form to assist you with your request.
