Landlord / Tenant Questions & Answers

By Ted Kimball, Esq., Partner, Kimball Tirey & St. John LLP
- Question: I heard that VAWA was approved again by the government and that it applies all units. Is that true?
- Answer: VAWA (Violence Against Women Act) was reauthorized in 2022. Most of the law only applies to “covered housing providers” which are tax credit properties, HUD funded programs, and properties with subsidies under the USDA program. There is only one section that applies to all housing providers and that is the right of tenants to summon law enforcement.
- Question: The present rental agreement is for two tenants. One has passed away. Do I need to write a new rental agreement with the remaining tenant?
- Answer: You are not required to write up a new lease; the current tenant is still responsible for the full rent and other lease terms.