Ann O’Connell

Attorney · UC Berkeley School of Law
Can I Smoke in My Own Apartment?
Whether you can smoke in your own apartment depends on your lease and the relevant law. ... READ MORE

How Much Does a Landlord-Tenant Lawyer Cost?
We compiled and analyzed data on fee arrangements reported by landlord-tenant attorneys across the United States. Here is what we found. ... READ MORE

Rights & Responsibilities of Tenants
Knowing your rights as a renter (and enforcing them as necessary) and meeting your legal responsibilities is key to a successful tenancy. ... READ MORE

State-by-State Security Deposit Laws and Limits
Find out what your state's law says about how much landlords can charge for security deposits. ... READ MORE

The Eviction Process
Filing an eviction lawsuit is the only legal way to physically remove tenants from a rental. Learn what to expect at each stage of the eviction process. ... READ MORE

Your Rights and Responsibilities as a Residential Landlord
Fulfilling your responsibilities as a rental property owner (and enforcing your rights as necessary) is key to successful landlording. Here are the basics you need to know. ... READ MORE

How Does Rent Control Work?
Learn the basics of rent control. ... READ MORE

Why Landlords Must Provide Livable Rentals
The implied warranty of habitability requires landlords to meet basic standards of livability. ... READ MORE

Questions Landlords Can't Legally Ask on Rental Applications
Federal, state, and local laws prevent landlords from asking certain questions on rental applications. ... READ MORE

How to File a Federal Fair Housing Complaint
If you've been the subject of housing discrimination, here's the breakdown of what to expect if you decide to file a federal fair housing complaint. ... READ MORE