Title: Criminal Acts and Activities: Landlord Liability FAQ | Nolo
Headings: Criminal Acts and Activities: Landlord Liability FAQ
Criminal Acts and Activities: Landlord Liability FAQ
Landlords have some degree of legal responsibility to protect their tenants from assailants, thieves, and fellow tenants.
Questions
How can a landlord limit responsibility for crime committed by strangers on the rental property?
What kind of legal trouble do landlords face from tenants who deal illegal drugs on the property?
How can a property owner avoid liability because of tenants who deal drugs or otherwise break the law?
What are the landlord's responsibilities for tenant safety and security?

Content: Meet or exceed all state and local security laws that apply to the rental property, such as requirements for deadbolt locks on doors, good lighting, and window locks. Realistically assess the crime situation in and around the rental property and neighborhood and design a security system that provides reasonable protection for the tenants. Local police departments, your insurance company, and private security professionals can provide useful advice on security measures. Educate tenants about crime problems in the neighborhood, and describe the security measures provided and their usage and limitations. Maintain the rental property and conduct regular inspections to spot and fix any security problems, such as broken locks or burnt out exterior flood lights. Asking tenants for their suggestions as part of an ongoing repair and maintenance system is also a good idea. Handle tenant complaints about dangerous situations, suspicious activities, or broken security items immediately. Failing to do this may saddle you with a higher level of legal liability should a tenant be injured by a criminal act after a relevant complaint is made. If additional security requires a rent hike, discuss the situation with your tenants. Many tenants will pay more for a safer place to live.