landlord

A landlord is an individual or organization that owns property and rents it to tenants under a lease or rental agreement. The landlord may be called the owner, property owner, or lessor. The landlord's primary function is to grant a right to occupy property in exchange for rent, while retaining ownership.

Typical terms include rent amount, payment due date, duration of the tenancy, and a security deposit. The security deposit is held to cover damage or unpaid rent and is usually returned at the end of the tenancy, subject to deductions for repairs as allowed by law.

Responsibilities include maintaining a habitable dwelling, performing repairs, ensuring safety standards, and complying with housing laws. Landlords may be required to perform disclosures (such as lead paint or mold) and to use approved screening practices. They also set rules in the lease and must follow fair housing and anti-discrimination laws.

Eviction and rent disputes are handled through local tenancy laws. Most jurisdictions require notice before termination of tenancy and a lawful basis for eviction. Mediation or small-claims processes may be available.

Landlords vary in scale from private individuals who own one rental unit to professional landlords, property management companies, or institutions that own multiple properties. Some engage property managers to handle day-to-day operations, tenant screening, maintenance, and rent collection.