Ann O’Connell
Attorney · UC Berkeley School of Law
Top Five Things Landlords Should Do Before Tenants Move In
Learn what landlords should do to prepare their rentals for new tenants. ... READ MORE
Landlord Liability for Toxic and Black Mold
All states have at least a minimal requirement that landlords offer and maintain fit and habitable housing. Legislatures and courts are increasingly recognizing that the presence of certain types of mold might violate the landlord’s duty. ... READ MORE
How Renters Can Protect Their Security Deposit
Find out what to do before, during, and at the end of your tenancy to protect your security deposit. ... READ MORE
Should Landlords Charge Pet Deposits and Pet Fees?
Pet deposits and fees aren't always the best option for covering the cost of pet-related damage—and they might even be illegal. Learn what to do instead. ... READ MORE
Why Landlords Shouldn't Collect "Last Month's Rent"
Landlords who label part of the deposit they collect as "last month's rent" are limiting the ways in which they can use a deposit. ... READ MORE
Six Situations When Tenants Should Hire a Lawyer
If you're a tenant who's in one of these situations, you should consider hiring a lawyer. ... READ MORE
Moving Out of a Rental: Important Steps to Keep Your Landlord Happy
Just because you move out early doesn't mean you can't end your tenancy on a positive note. ... READ MORE
Should I Cosign Someone Else’s Lease?
Before you agree to be a cosigner, be sure you know the pros and cons of signing someone else's lease or rental agreement. ... READ MORE
Can Landlords Charge Tenants for Ordinary Wear and Tear?
Landlords can't deduct normal wear and tear from a security deposit—but what qualifies as damage is hard to determine. This article breaks down the key questions courts ask and provides examples of what's covered and what's not. ... READ MORE
How to Terminate a Residential Lease or Rental Agreement
Ending a tenancy isn't always as simple as packing your bags and handing over the keys. Discover the specific legal rules both landlords and tenants must follow to terminate an agreement without facing costly consequences. ... READ MORE