Introducing the two most violated areas of landlord tenant law. Here is a spark notes version:
Security Deposits (Ala. Code § 35-9A-201):
A landlord may only take a deposit equal to one month’s rent (but they can ask for additional pet deposit). At the end of tenancy, the landlord must return the deposit within 60 days or give you an itemized list of damages within 60 days.
*Note to Tenants: You must give the landlord a valid forwarding address, in writing. You will forfeit your deposit within 90 days if you are allusive.
Lease Termination (Ala. Code § 35-9A-201): Tenants must give notice in writing that they plan to vacate. The notice requirement in Alabama is 30 days. For example if you want to move out on June 30th, you MUST have given written notice by May 31. If you give notice on June 5th, thinking you are going to leave on June 30th, I can’t help you.
If the place you are renting is in terrible condition (meaning the water doesn’t work, the floor is caving in, tons of mold present, etc. YOU MUST LET THE LANDLORD KNOW - AND - GIVE HIM A CHANCE TO FIX IT (Read this three times). If the landlord still doesn’t fix the property, then call me and we will take necessary action.
This is not legal advice. If you want legal advice, you should call us (it is free).