Both landlords and tenants in Oregon have specific rights and responsibilities under state law.

Tenant Rights

• The right to a habitable living environment

• Protection from unlawful discrimination

• The right to receive proper notice before rent increases or lease terminations

• The right to privacy with required notice before entry

Landlord Rights

• The right to collect rent and enforce lease terms

• The ability to request a security deposit for damages

• The right to evict tenants for valid legal reasons

Tenant Responsibilities

• Paying rent on time

• Keeping the rental unit clean and undamaged

• Not engaging in illegal activities on the premises

Landlord Responsibilities

• Maintaining the rental unit in a habitable condition

• Making necessary repairs within a reasonable timeframe

• Complying with Oregon’s fair housing laws

Compliance with Fair Housing Laws in Oregon

Oregon landlords must comply with federal and state fair housing laws to prevent discrimination.

Protected Classes Under Fair Housing Laws

The Federal Fair Housing Act and Oregon fair housing laws prohibit discrimination based on:

• Race, color, national origin

• Religion

• Sex, gender identity, or sexual orientation

• Familial status (including pregnancy)

• Disability

• Source of income (including Section 8 housing vouchers)

Best Practices for Landlords

• Use standardized rental applications for all applicants

• Avoid discriminatory language in rental listings

• Provide reasonable accommodations for tenants with disabilities

Violations of fair housing laws can lead to legal consequences, including fines and lawsuits.

Security Deposits in Oregon

Security deposit regulations in Oregon protect both landlords and tenants.

Key Rules for Security Deposits

• No maximum limit: Oregon does not cap security deposit amounts.

• Written documentation required: Landlords must provide a written receipt and detailed move-in inspection report.

• Return timeline: Landlords must return the deposit within 31 days after a tenant moves out, along with an itemized list of deductions (if any).

• Lawful deductions: Security deposits may only be used for unpaid rent, damage beyond normal wear and tear, or other agreed-upon costs.

Failure to comply with security deposit laws can result in penalties, including double the withheld amount being awarded to the tenant.

Maintenance Responsibilities of Landlords

Oregon law requires landlords to keep rental properties safe and habitable.

Landlord’s Maintenance Obligations

• Maintain plumbing, electrical, heating, and structural integrity

• Ensure common areas are clean and safe

• Provide garbage disposal services (if applicable)

• Supply hot and cold running water

• Repair any damages not caused by the tenant within a reasonable timeframe

If landlords fail to make necessary repairs, tenants may be allowed to withhold rent, file a complaint, or request compensation for repairs.

Eviction Procedures for Oregon Landlords

Evictions in Oregon must follow a legal process. Landlords cannot remove tenants without proper notice or a court order.

Legal Reasons for Eviction

• Nonpayment of rent: Landlords must provide a 72-hour notice after rent is overdue.

• Lease violations: A 30-day notice is required for lease violations, with an opportunity to correct the issue.

• No-cause termination: If a lease is month-to-month, landlords may provide a 90-day notice in certain circumstances.

The Eviction Process in Oregon

1. Provide proper notice to the tenant (72-hour, 30-day, or 90-day).

2. If the tenant does not comply, file an eviction lawsuit (FED - Forcible Entry and Detainer) in court.

3. Attend a court hearing where the judge determines the outcome.

4. If granted, obtain a writ of execution for law enforcement to remove the tenant.

Illegal evictions, such as shutting off utilities or changing locks without court approval, can result in severe legal consequences for landlords.

Conclusion

Oregon’s landlord-tenant laws protect both parties by establishing clear rights and responsibilities. Landlords must comply with fair housing regulations, security deposit rules, maintenance requirements, and eviction procedures to operate legally and ethically.

For additional details, always refer to the Oregon Residential Landlord and Tenant Act or consult a legal professional for guidance.