The city code deals primarily with the physical aspects of the rental unit such as health and safety requirements and guidelines for fair housing. Part 17, Title Three, Articles 1731-1747 deals explicitly with Housing Codes. Article 1745 in particular discusses the responsibilities of the owner and the occupant. Study the terms of these legal documents before signing a lease. All tenants are bound to the terms of these laws unless the terms of the lease are modified or the state allows modification for an exceptional reason.
Habitability is a word to which students attatch significant meaning.
It is the landlord's legal obligation to provide a healthy and safe environment in which to live. Most landlords require that a security deposit accompany the signing of the lease. Security deposits usually equal one month's rent and cannot exceed two months' rent. The general purpose of the deposit should be stated in the lease. Usually, the deposit is used in the event of a tenant's breach of lease and pays for losses suffered by the landlord.