NCJ Number
76315
Date Published
1979
Length
7 pages
Annotation
This pamphlet prepared by South Dakota's Division of Consumer Protection describes the rights and responsibilities of both tenants and landlords, as well as legal remedies available to settle disputes.
Abstract
The introduction notes that intervention in disputes between landlords and tenants becomes the responsibility of the Office of the Attorney General rather than the Division of Consumer Protection in July 1979. Written leases and oral rental agreements are defined, followed by an outline of tenant's rights. These include the right to possession of the property without interference from the landlord and reasonable maintenance of the premises by the owner. Procedures to follow when the landlord fails to repair the tenant's dwelling are detailed. A tenant must pay rent and preserve the premises in a good and safe condition, but is not responsible for ordinary wear and tear not caused by negligence. If a tenant has not paid rent, substantially damaged the property, or not abided by other conditions in a lease, the landlord may evict the tenant, withhold the security deposit, or sue. Laws which govern these actions and procedures that must be followed are described. Legal requirements for disposition of property left behind by a tenant on rental premises following termination of a lease are summarized. Suggestions for resolving problems without resorting to legal action are offered. State legal service agencies which can handle tenant-landlord disputes are listed.