How to Protect Senior Citizens’ Tenant Rights

As a landlord, renting to tenants who are older can have a number of benefits. Older tenants tend to renew their leases reliably, lead quiet lifestyles, and are often highly reliable when it comes to paying rent. However, as a landlord, you should recognize that your elderly tenants have different needs than younger tenants.

Plan for Health Challenges

As people age, health conditions often develop or become more pronounced. Common illnesses among all Americans and the elderly include diabetes, osteoporosis and Alzheimer’s disease.

As a landlord, it’s essential that you obtain an emergency contact if something happens to the elderly tenant and they need assistance.

Elderly tenants who suffer from mental illness or diseases such as Alzheimers may forget to pay their rent, and you should ensure that they take the steps to avoid problems and misunderstandings.

Check Your Lease Provisions Against the Fair Housing Act

According to the Federal Fair Housing Act of 1968, it is a crime to discriminate against prospective tenants as a result of their age. The Fair Housing Act protects buyers and renters of housing from discrimination by sellers, landlords, or financial institutions and makes it unlawful for those institutions to refuse to rent, sell, or provide financing for a unit based on factors other than an individual’s financial resources.

You should ensure that there is nothing in your lease agreements that could potentially be construed as discriminatory language against senior citizens, as this could expose you to legal liabilities.

Ensure Your Property is Accessible

As a landlord, you will want to prepare your building for security and safety measures. Determine if the rental area is well-equipped for older tenants. An elevator would be convenient for anyone who can’t use the stairs. Your renters should be able to access their homes safely without any worries.

Are Your Rental Policies Compliant with the Fair Housing Act?

To ensure that your properties and lease provisions are compliant with applicable federal laws, such as the Americans with Disabilities Act and the Fair Housing Act, it can be beneficial to consult with an expert on the matters. At Outerbridge Law, we have over 15 years of experience navigating the landlord tenant legal landscape. We can help you ensure that your leases are compliant with crucial federal laws, and that you’re able to provide a positive renting experience for tenants in every stage of their lives.

To learn more or schedule an initial consultation, contact Outerbridge Law online, or give our New York City office a call at 877-OUTERBRIDGE.