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 by a state or local authority to be unfit for human habitation. 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.