Alabama Landlord-Tenant Law

Alabama is ranked as the second state for lowest property taxes and seventh for the most affordable housing market, which makes it a great place to invest in rental property. Birmingham has been ranked the number one most affordable city, which makes it a hot spot for those looking to relocate as well. For our recommendations on exactly where to invest in this state, take a look at our Alabama rental investment report – read below for guidance on Alabama landlord-tenant law.

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Laws that impact the rental market, landlords, and tenants are constantly being decided in states. Make sure you know what’s on your ballot – find Alabama voting information here.

Alabama Renters' Rights and Landlord Responsibilities

  • Have 60 days to return security deposit
  • No notice required before raising rent
  • Two-day notice required before entering the property
  • Required to make repairs within 14 days

When it comes to Alabama rental laws, there are a few specifics landlords need to know:

  1. Security Deposit – Alabama limits the amount a landlord may charge for the security deposit to the equivalent of one month’s rent. Landlords must return the deposit within 60 days of the tenant moving out.
  2. Raising Rent – Landlords in Alabama may increase the rent to any amount for any reason with no notice.
  3. Notice of Entry – Alabama requires a two-day written notice from the landlord before entering. 
  4. Repairs – It is the landlord’s responsibility to keep the rental in safe and healthy living conditions. Landlords must make repairs within 14 days of being notified by the tenant. If they fail to do so, the tenant may make the repairs themselves and deduct the cost from their next rent payment.

Alabama Landlords' Rights and Tenant Responsibilities

  • Tenants have seven days to pay rent after they receive a notice 
  • Must give a 30-day notice before terminating a lease
  • Tenants must clean or make small repairs 
  • A tenant has 14 days to claim abandoned property
  1. Overdue Rent – If a tenant fails to pay rent on time, the landlord must give them a seven-day notice to pay or quit. If the tenant fails to pay, the landlord may file for eviction. 
  2. Terminating a Lease – If a tenant needs to terminate a month-to-month lease, they must give the landlord a 30-day notice.
  3. Tenant Responsibilities – Tenants are required to keep the property clean and not disturb neighbors. If their landlord deems necessary, the tenant must clean the property within seven days of being notified by the landlord.
  4. Abandoned Property – If a tenant moves out and leaves personal property, the landlord must send them a written notice and store the property for 14 days. After this time period, if the ex-tenant has not claimed it, the landlord may sell it or throw it away.

Alabama Landlord-Tenant Law FAQ

Below are answers to some of the most commonly-asked questions when it comes to landlord-tenant laws in Alabama:

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Can You Withhold Rent in Alabama?

Renters are able to pay for repairs that the landlord fails to make and deduct the cost from next month’s rent. 

How Long Does it Take to Evict a Tenant in Alabama?

Evicting a tenant in Alabama can take anywhere from one month to multiple months depending on the reason for eviction. 

Is Alabama a Landlord-Friendly State?

Alabama is considered a landlord-friendly state because of the lack of rent control laws.

What is the Eviction Process in Alabama?

There are six reasons a landlord may file for eviction in Alabama. The six reasons include failure to pay rent, violation of the lease agreement, misleading information on the application, the end of the lease term, safety violation, and illegal activity. Depending on the violation, the landlord must give the tenant notice and anywhere from 7 to 30 days to cure their violation. 

If the tenant fails to cure or quit, then the landlord may file a complaint with the court, which costs $256. After the complaint is filed, it will be served to the tenant at least six days before the return date of the process. 

After the tenant receives the summons and complaint, they are required to file an answer with the court within seven days. After the answer is filed, the court will schedule a hearing. 

If the court rules in favor of the landlord, then a writ of execution will be issued immediately. Upon being served the writ of execution, the tenant will have to move out within seven days.

How Much Notice Does a Landlord Have to Give a Tenant to Move Out in Alabama?

Landlords must give a 30-day notice before asking a month-to-month tenant to vacate the property.

Due Diligence and Alabama Rental Laws

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TurboTenant has utilized many municipal sources, along with official state statutes, in order to compile this information to the best of our ability. However, local laws are always in flux, and landlords and tenants alike should do their due diligence and consult legal help when it’s needed. We hope the following list can serve as a valuable resource and allow you to succeed as a landlord or tenant in Alabama. Be sure to take proper precautions when it comes to finding the top candidates for your unit by utilizing our online rental application and tenant screening services.

Disclaimer: TurboTenant, Inc does not provide legal advice. This material has been prepared for informational purposes only. All users are advised to check all applicable local, state, and federal laws, and consult legal counsel should questions arise.

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Alabama Landlord-Tenant Law Resources

Alabama Fair Housing Resources

Other State Resources

Alabama Real Estate Associations

Alabama City-Specific Housing Resources

Federal Fair Housing Resources

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