The rental market in 2025 looks very different. New rules have been made to protect both tenants and landlords. These changes bring more fairness, clear rules, and balance in housing.
Whether you are renting your first apartment or managing many properties, it is important to know these rules. They help you understand your rights and avoid problems.
New Rules for Security Deposits
Security deposits have always been a big issue in rentals. From 2025, deposits cannot be more than one month’s rent for most homes. This helps tenants as they no longer need to pay huge deposits.
Landlords must now take photo proof of the house before and after the tenancy. This proof is needed if they want to deduct money for damages or cleaning.
If a landlord does not follow this rule, they may lose the right to keep any part of the deposit. This gives tenants more safety and fairness.
Clear Rules for Tenant Screening
The tenant screening process has also changed. Landlords must accept tenants in the order they apply. The first qualified applicant must be chosen.
This stops landlords from picking tenants unfairly. It is a first-come, first-served rule.
Landlords also need to share their screening rules before applications. If an applicant is not selected, the application fee must be returned. This makes the system open and clear for all.
Credit Building Through Rent Payments
A new rule in 2025 helps tenants build credit with rent payments. From April 1, 2025, landlords of buildings with 15 or more units must give tenants the option to report rent to credit agencies.
This helps renters improve their credit scores. The cost can be up to $10 per month, but only if the landlord pays that much to offer the service.
Small landlords with fewer units are not required to do this. This makes the rule fair for both big and small property owners.
Here is a simple table for clarity:
Rule | Who Must Follow | Cost to Tenant | Benefit |
Rent reporting | Landlords with 15+ units | Up to $10/month | Helps tenants build credit |
Small landlords | Not required | $0 | No extra burden |
Ban on Junk Fees
Extra hidden fees are no longer allowed. Landlords cannot charge extra money for paying rent with checks or for sending notices like eviction letters.
Military tenants also get special protection. If they pay rent on time for six months, they can get any extra deposit back with a written explanation.
This ban on junk fees makes rental costs clearer. Tenants will not face sudden surprise charges, which builds more trust in agreements.
Conclusion
The rental market in 2025 brings strong changes for both tenants and landlords. With limits on deposits, fair screening, credit reporting, and a ban on junk fees, the system is now more balanced.
These rules aim to make renting easier, fairer, and more transparent for everyone. Tenants can feel safer, and landlords have clear guidelines to follow.
FAQs
What is the new rule for deposits?
Deposits cannot be more than one month’s rent.
Do landlords need to accept the first applicant?
Yes, if they are qualified.
Yes, if they are qualified.
Can rent payments improve credit now?
Are hidden rental fees allowed?
No, junk fees are banned.
Do military tenants get extra rights?
Yes, they can get deposits back faster.