Almost every state in the U.S. requires that landlords maintain safe and livable residential units. This is often called a "warranty of habitability." In some places, there are laws that specify exactly what those requirements are; in others, the standards are less defined.
The latest explainer from Shelterforce breaks down the core elements of habitability — the legal requirement that landlords maintain safe and livable housing. While most states mandate heat, functional plumbing, electrical safety, and protection from pests and hazards, other protections — including mold remediation and air conditioning during extreme heat — remain inconsistent across jurisdictions.
The piece outlines common standards, highlights gaps in state laws, and shows how climate change is pressuring local governments to strengthen habitability requirements. A clear, accessible resource for planners and policymakers focused on healthy housing and tenant protection.
FULL STORY: What Makes a Habitable Rental Home?
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Eagle County Government
Harvard University Graduate School of Design
Nashville Planning Department
The Architects Foundation
University of Cincinnati Online
The Pocatello Development Authority
The Urban Renewal Agency of the City of Pocatello
Journal of the American Planning Association