Alabama Rental Laws

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This article summarizes some key Alabama Landlord-Tenant laws applicable to residential rental units.

We’ve used the Official State Statutes and other online sources cited below to research this information and it should be a good starting point in learning about the law.

With that said, our summary is not intended to be exhaustive or a substitute for qualified legal advice. Laws and statutes are always subject to change, and may even vary from county to county or city to city.

You are responsible for performing your own research and complying with all laws applicable to your unique situation.

If you have legal questions or concerns, we recommend consulting with the appropriate government agencies and/or a qualified lawyer in your area. Your local or state bar association may have a referral service that can help you find a lawyer with experience in landlord-tenant law.

Official Rules and Regulations

Details

Security Deposit:

  • Security Deposit Maximum: Equal to 1 month’s rent
  • Security Deposit Interest: unknown
  • Separate Security Deposit Bank Account: No statute
  • Pet Deposits and Additional Fees: Additional deposits are allowed for pets, undoing alterations (such as handrails and ramps for the handicapped), and any specific tenant activities that increase liability risks
  • Deadline for Returning Security Deposit: 35 days

Lease, Rent & Fees:

  • Rent Increase Notice: unknown
  • Late Fees: unknown
  • Returned Check Fees: $30 plus other costs of collection

Notices and Entry:

  • Move-Out Inspection Notification: No statute
  • Eviction Notice for Nonpayment: 7 days to pay or quit
  • Eviction Notice for Lease Violation: 10 days to remedy or quit
  • Required Notice before Entry: 2 days
  • Entry Allowed with Notice for Maintenance and Repairs: Yes
  • Entry Allowed During Tenant’s Extended Absence: In excess of 14 day absence, unannounced reasonable entry is allowed
  • Entry Allowed with Notice for Showing the Property: Yes
  • Emergency Entry Allowed without Notice: Yes, within reason

Court Related:

  • Small Claims Court Limits: $3,000

Business Licenses:

  • Business License required: unknown

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