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Does Montana law require tenants to maintain cleanliness in rental properties?

Does Montana law require tenants to maintain cleanliness in rental properties?

Full question:

I have rented my housed to a college student in Montana. The tenant is not keeping the premises clean and tidy. He has already damaged the air conditioning and other electrical appliances due to his careless usage. Is there a law in Montana which states that the tenant has an obligation to keep the premises of the rental property clean and maintained?

Category: Landlord Tenant
Subcategory: Duties of Tenant
Date: 04/07/2025
State: Montana

Answer:

In Montana, tenants have specific duties outlined in 70-24-321, MCA. According to this law, tenants must:

Use all electrical appliances, including air conditioning, in a reasonable manner.
Keep the part of the premises they occupy clean and safe.
Dispose of waste, such as garbage and rubbish, in a clean and safe manner.
Maintain plumbing fixtures in a clean condition.
Conduct themselves and ensure others on the premises do not disturb neighbors.
Use the premises as intended, including living areas like the kitchen and bathroom.

Additionally, tenants are prohibited from damaging or allowing damage to the property (70-24-321, MCA). Therefore, your tenant is legally obligated to keep the rental property clean and to use appliances properly.

This content is for informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Legal statutes mentioned reflect the law at the time the content was written and may no longer be current. Always verify the latest version of the law before relying on it.

FAQs

Do college students have tenant rights?

Yes, college students have tenant rights just like any other renters. In Montana, these rights include the right to a habitable living environment, privacy, and protection against discrimination. They are also entitled to the terms outlined in their lease agreement. It's important for student tenants to understand their rights to ensure they are treated fairly by landlords.

Is a landlord required by law to clean between tenants?

In Montana, landlords are generally expected to provide a clean and habitable rental property at the beginning of a lease. While there is no specific law mandating cleaning between tenants, it is considered good practice for landlords to ensure the property is clean and safe before new tenants move in. This helps meet the habitability standards required by law.

How long does a landlord have to fix something in Montana?

In Montana, landlords must address repair requests in a timely manner. If a repair affects the habitability of the property, such as a broken heating system or plumbing issues, the landlord is typically expected to make the repair within a reasonable time frame, often within 14 days. Tenants should notify landlords in writing about necessary repairs to ensure prompt action.

Can landlords discriminate against college students?

No, landlords cannot discriminate against college students based on their status as students. Under federal and state fair housing laws, discrimination based on age, education status, or other non-related factors is prohibited. Landlords must treat all applicants equally and cannot impose additional requirements solely because someone is a college student.

What rights do student tenants have in housing?

Student tenants have the same rights as any other renters, including the right to a safe and habitable living environment, privacy, and protection from discrimination. They also have the right to receive proper notice before a landlord enters the property and to have their security deposit returned in accordance with state laws. Understanding these rights can help students navigate their rental agreements effectively.

Can I withhold rent if my AC doesn't work?

In Montana, tenants may have the right to withhold rent if essential services, like air conditioning, are not functioning and the landlord fails to make timely repairs. However, tenants should first notify the landlord of the issue and allow a reasonable time for repairs. It's advisable to consult legal advice before withholding rent to ensure compliance with state laws.