3 Tips For Military Renters

 

When you’re renting a property, it’s really important for you, as a tenant, to understand your rights and understand what you’re getting into when you sign a lease agreement. So we spoke with attorney Robert Jameson to discuss three things members of the military need to know before signing a lease agreement.

Be Aware Of Your Rights Through The Servicemembers Civil Relief Act. 

If you’re not already, make sure you’re familiar with the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act. It allows you to terminate your lease agreement in certain circumstances, including a deployment or permanent change of station (PCS orders). However, we urge you not to forge your orders simply to get out of a lease agreement. 

Rent Through A Reputable Property Management Company.

Make sure you’re renting through a reputable property management company. Things will happen. Your dishwasher will start leaking, a pipe will burst, your AC will go out, etc. It’s part of life. As an active duty servicemember, you’re incredibly busy with your duties so you want someone in your corner who will help you take care of your property.

Utilize Navy Legal Counsel When Needed.

As an active duty service member or a reservist, you are able to seek Navy legal counsel for free at Naval Station Mayport, NAS Jacksonville, or Kings Bay. So if there is an issue between you and your landlord, we encourage you to seek legal counsel. Most of the time these things can be very easily fixed with a simple letter, but those resources are made available to you so we encourage you to use them.