Utah Tenant Rights Laws
Created by FindLaw's team of legal writers and editors | Last reviewed September 29, 2017
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Whether you're new to renting or an experienced tenant, you're probably aware of the multitude of issues that can come up during the landlord-tenant relationship. To address these issues, Utah has many laws governing the parties' rights and responsibilities, in addition to federal and local laws. Read on to learn more about Utah tenant rights laws.
Tenant Rights: Repairs, Security Deposits, and More
Like other states, Utah law prohibits discrimination based on protected characteristics such as race, religion, and gender identity. Prohibited conduct by a landlord includes refusing to rent to someone, discriminating in the lease terms or conditions, and lying about the availability of a rental unit based on a protected trait.
You're also entitled to live in a unit that's in a habitable condition such that it is safe, sanitary, and fit for human habitation. This means your landlord must maintain heating and air conditioning systems, and provide hot and cold water, among other services. However, as the tenant, you also have the responsibility to avoid intentionally or negligently damaging your rental unit.
If you do damage the rental beyond reasonable wear and tear, your landlord may retain all or part of your security deposit to cover the repairs (or for other specified reasons). In any case, however, you are entitled to receive the balance of your security deposit and a written notice of any deductions within 30 days of moving out.
Utah's rental laws are designed to guide the landlord-tenant relationship and clarify your rights as a renter. And although Utah has no statute prohibiting your landlord from retaliating against you simply because you requested repairs or complained about housing code violations, Utah case law does prohibit such actions.
Utah Tenant Rights Laws at a Glance
The chart below provides a summary of Utah state laws governing the landlord-tenant relationship, including links to important code sections.
Statutes |
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Security Deposits |
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Paying Rent |
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Living Conditions |
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Discrimination |
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Ending or Renewing a Tenancy |
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Retaliation |
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Note: State regulations are always subject to change through the passage of new legislation, rulings in the higher courts (including federal decisions), ballot initiatives, and other means. While we strive to provide the most current information available, please consult an attorney or conduct your own legal research to verify the state law(s) you are researching.
Utah Tenant Rights Laws: Related Resources
- Utah Lease and Rental Agreement Laws
- Utah Rental Guide
- Tenant Lease Agreement FAQs
- Tenants' Rights Basics
- U.S. Dept. of Housing and Urban Development in Utah
- Utah Fair Housing
Receive a Free Review of Your Tenancy Issues
While many tenancy issues can be resolved fairly with your landlord through polite communication, some problems escalate and require more time and effort. If you're dealing with a rental issue and trying to navigate all of the applicable laws and code sections, receive a free case review to get help asserting your rights under Utah's tenant rights laws.
Next Steps: Search for a Local Attorney
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