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.
Read the full story: What Makes a Habitable Rental Home?
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One Hundred Miles
Hunter College, City University of New York (CUNY)
The Architects Foundation
University of Cincinnati Online
City of Cambridge
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The Pocatello Development Authority