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Can my landlord terminate my lease for keeping drugs in my house?

Can my landlord terminate my lease for keeping drugs in my house?

Full question:

I am living in a rented house in Alabama. Last week my friend visited me and left some Kratom (drugs) in my house. At present, my friend is out of town so I am forced to keep the drugs until my friend returns. I am not into drugs at all. Can my landlord terminate the rental agreement if I keep drugs in the house?

Category: Landlord Tenant
Subcategory: Lease Termination
Date: 04/07/2025
State: Alabama

Answer:

In Alabama, a landlord can terminate a rental agreement if a tenant possesses drugs on the property. According to Code of Ala. § 35-9A-421, certain actions by a tenant, including the possession or use of illegal drugs in the dwelling or common areas, are considered a noncurable default. This means the landlord can give a seven-day notice to terminate the lease, and the tenant cannot remedy the situation unless the landlord agrees. Therefore, keeping drugs in your rented house could lead to termination of your rental agreement.

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

Are landlords notified when police are called?

In general, landlords are not automatically notified when police are called to a rental property. However, if the police are called due to illegal activity, such as drug possession, the landlord may become aware of the situation through various means, including communication from law enforcement or complaints from neighbors. It is important to note that any illegal activity could lead to lease violations and potential eviction. *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.*

Are renters considered guests?

Renters are not considered guests; they are tenants who have a legal agreement with the landlord to occupy the property. Guests are typically individuals who visit temporarily and do not have a lease or rental agreement. The distinction is important, as tenants have rights and responsibilities under the lease, while guests do not have the same legal standing. *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.*

Is kratom considered a drug?

Kratom is classified as a drug due to its psychoactive properties and effects on the body. While it is not classified as a controlled substance at the federal level in the U.S., some states, including Alabama, may have specific laws regarding its use and possession. Therefore, possessing kratom in a rental property could potentially lead to lease violations, especially if local laws prohibit it. *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.*

Can a landlord search your apartment for drugs?

In Alabama, landlords generally need a valid reason to enter a rental unit, such as a suspected lease violation or emergency. If there is reasonable suspicion of illegal activity, such as drug possession, a landlord may request to search the apartment. However, they typically must provide notice and obtain consent from the tenant unless there are extenuating circumstances. *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.*

Can a landlord demand a drug test?

In Alabama, landlords cannot generally demand a drug test from tenants unless it is explicitly stated in the lease agreement. If the lease includes provisions for drug testing or if there is reasonable suspicion of illegal activity, a landlord may have grounds to request a test. However, tenants have rights regarding privacy and consent, and any testing must comply with applicable laws. *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.*

How long can a friend stay at my house?

The length of time a friend can stay at your rental property often depends on the terms of your lease agreement. Many leases allow for short-term guests but may have restrictions on how long they can stay without being considered a tenant. Typically, a stay of a few days to a couple of weeks is acceptable, but longer stays may require landlord notification or approval to avoid lease violations. *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.*