What were the limits on apartment application fees charged by landlords in the USA in 2021?

Question from v, What were the limits on apartment application fees charged by landlords in the USA in 2021?

Answer from AI:

The limits on apartment application fees charged by landlords in the USA in 2021 varied widely depending on the state and local jurisdiction. There is no federal law that sets a nationwide limit on application fees. Instead, these fees are regulated at the state and sometimes local level.

State Regulations

In some states, there are specific laws that limit how much a landlord can charge for an application fee. For example, in California, as of 2021, landlords could not charge more than $50.94 for an application fee according to the California Civil Code Section 1950.6.

In other states, there may be no limit on application fees. For example, in Texas, there is no statutory limit on how much a landlord can charge for an application fee.

Local Regulations

In addition to state laws, some cities or counties have their own regulations on application fees. For instance, in New York City, a law passed in 2019 caps application fees at $20.

What Application Fees Cover

Application fees generally cover the cost of running a background or credit check on a prospective tenant. Some states require landlords to provide an itemized receipt or to return the fee if the cost of the background check was less than the fee charged.

Consulting a Legal Professional

Because the laws vary so much from place to place, it’s important to consult with a legal professional or a local tenants’ rights organization if you believe you’ve been charged an excessive application fee. They can provide guidance based on the specific laws in your area.

Please note: This information is intended to provide a general understanding of the law. It is not intended to provide legal advice. Please consult with a legal professional for advice specific to your situation.