**No, a landlord cannot levy a tenant’s bank account simply because they are ill.**
Being ill does not automatically make someone exempt from their financial obligations, including rent payments. However, there are protections in place for tenants facing financial hardship due to illness.
FAQs:
1. Can a landlord evict a tenant for being ill?
In most cases, a landlord cannot evict a tenant solely for being ill. However, if the tenant is unable to fulfill their lease obligations, the landlord may have grounds for eviction.
2. Can a landlord refuse to renew a lease if a tenant is ill?
It is illegal for a landlord to refuse to renew a lease based on a tenant’s illness. This would be considered discrimination under the Fair Housing Act.
3. Can a tenant with an illness break their lease without penalty?
Tenants with a documented illness may be able to break their lease without penalty under certain circumstances, such as needing to move closer to medical care.
4. Can a landlord request medical documentation from a tenant who claims to be ill?
A landlord may request medical documentation from a tenant to verify their illness, but they must adhere to privacy laws and handle the information with care.
5. Can a landlord withhold security deposit if a tenant falls ill and cannot clean the apartment?
A landlord cannot withhold a security deposit solely because a tenant falls ill and cannot clean the apartment. Normal wear and tear should be expected.
6. Can a tenant request reasonable accommodations for their illness?
Yes, tenants with illnesses can request reasonable accommodations from their landlord, such as installing grab bars or allowing a service animal.
7. Can a landlord increase rent for a tenant with a chronic illness?
It is illegal for a landlord to increase rent for a tenant due to their chronic illness. This would also be considered discrimination.
8. Can a landlord require a tenant to pay for professional cleaning if they are ill?
A landlord can only require a tenant to pay for professional cleaning if it is specified in the lease agreement and is not due to the tenant’s illness.
9. Can a landlord ask for rent if a tenant is hospitalized?
A landlord can still request rent payments if a tenant is hospitalized, as rent is typically due regardless of the tenant’s circumstances.
10. Can a tenant with a communicable illness be evicted for posing a threat to other tenants?
A tenant with a communicable illness may be subject to eviction if they pose a direct threat to the health and safety of other tenants in the building.
11. Can a landlord deny a rental application based on a tenant’s illness?
It is illegal for a landlord to deny a rental application based on a tenant’s illness. This would be considered discriminatory under the Fair Housing Act.
12. Can a tenant be charged a fee for late rent payments due to illness?
A landlord may charge a late fee for rent payments that are overdue, regardless of the reason for the delay. However, they should consider waiving the fee in cases of illness or hardship.