The proposed bill amends the Uniform Owner-Resident Relations Act to improve transparency and fairness in rental agreements. It mandates that property owners provide clear notice to applicants about all costs associated with renting, including base rent and additional fees. Owners are restricted from charging a screening fee exceeding $50 unless they provide written notice and obtain the applicant's agreement. If an applicant is not offered the dwelling unit or if the owner fails to conduct necessary checks, the screening fee must be refunded within thirty days. The bill also requires owners to give at least sixty days' notice before increasing any fees and caps the maximum allowable late fee at five percent of the rent.

Additionally, the bill enhances the rights of applicants and residents by allowing them to recover attorney fees and court costs if they win legal actions related to rental agreements. It establishes penalties for owners who charge unauthorized fees, categorizing such actions as unfair or deceptive trade practices. The bill introduces new definitions and regulations regarding prohibited conduct in renting, clarifying the roles and responsibilities of owners and applicants. It emphasizes that owners cannot impose fees not classified as screening fees or deposits, nor can they charge fees not explicitly included in the rental agreement, thereby reinforcing consumer protection in the rental market.

Statutes affected:
introduced version: 47-8-3, 47-8-15, 47-8-48
JU substitute: 47-8-3, 47-8-15, 47-8-48, 57-12-2
Final Version: 47-8-3, 47-8-15, 47-8-48, 57-12-2