The bill amends the "Residential Landlord and Tenant Act" by adding new provisions that impact the relationship between landlords and tenants. Specifically, it introduces a new section (34-18-61) that prohibits landlords from charging convenience fees to tenants for rental payments, except when the landlord accepts a form of payment that does not require a convenience fee. Additionally, the bill amends section 34-18-15 to require landlords to disclose all nonoptional fees in the lease agreement, ensuring that the total monthly payment, including rent and nonoptional fees, is listed on the first page of the lease. Landlords must also provide written documentation of all nonoptional fees associated with renting the property, disclose whether utilities are included in the rent, and provide information about the utility companies servicing the rental unit. If a landlord fails to comply with these requirements, tenants may recover up to three months' rent and reasonable attorneys' fees.

The bill also outlines the obligations of landlords in advertising residential properties for rent, mandating that all nonoptional fees be included in the total amount of rent disclosed in any advertisement. This ensures transparency and allows potential tenants to understand the full cost of renting a property. The bill is designed to protect tenants from unexpected fees and to promote clarity in the financial aspects of renting. Upon passage, the act will take effect immediately, enforcing these new requirements on landlords and providing tenants with additional rights and information regarding their rental agreements.

Statutes affected:
2643: 34-18-15