Occupancy limits set the maximum number of people who can legally live in a rental unit, based on its size and local housing or building codes. Landlords can set reasonable limits, but they cannot use occupancy rules to discriminate against families with children.
In short
Occupancy limits set the maximum number of people who can legally live in a rental unit, based on its size and local housing or building codes. Landlords can set reasonable limits, but they cannot use occupancy rules to discriminate against families with children.
Occupancy limits affect who can live with you and can collide with fair-housing rights, so knowing the difference between a lawful safety limit and illegal family discrimination protects your household.
Cap the number of occupants based on unit size and local codes
Often guided by a general two-people-per-bedroom standard
Cannot be used to discriminate against families with children
Limits and standards vary by city and state
Guests staying long-term may count toward the limit
Adding occupants usually requires landlord approval
It depends on the unit's size and local housing codes, with a common guideline of about two people per bedroom. Your lease and local rules set the exact limit.
No. Using occupancy limits to discriminate against families with children violates fair-housing protections. Limits must be based on legitimate factors like unit size and code.
Short-term guests usually don't, but a guest who effectively moves in can. Many leases define how long someone can stay before counting as an occupant, so check yours.
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