When this happens, the administrator may collect rent, contract for materials and services to remedy violations, and perform other duties as outlined by the court. A landlord is prohibited from renting property that is unsuitable for occupancy. The landlord may not accept rent or a security deposit for residential rental property condemned or declared unfit for human habitation by a state or local authority. The landlord is liable to the tenant for actual damages and three times the amount of all money collected from the tenant after the date the property is condemned or declared unfit by state or local officials. This includes court costs and attorney's fees.
Actual damages can include items such as moving expenses, temporary lodging and other costs.
If a building is condemned, a landlord must return the tenant's security deposit within five days after the tenant moves from the building, unless the tenant's willful, malicious or irresponsible conduct caused the condemnation. If a tenant moves out because the building is destroyed or unfit for habitation, then the landlord must return the security deposit within 21 days unless a state or local authority has condemned the building, then the landlord must return the tenant's security deposit within five days. If the rental unit is habitable but needs repairs, the tenant may be eligible for a rent reduction during the time that the unit is being repaired. The landlord is responsible for repairing the damaged rental property and maintaining other property included in the rental agreement, such as appliances or other furnishings. The tenant is responsible for his or her personal belongings.