Glossary Term
Retaliation occurs when a landlord takes adverse action against a tenant because the tenant exercised a legal right—such as complaining about conditions, requesting repairs, joining a tenant group, or reporting code violations. Retaliatory evictions, rent increases, or harassment are generally illegal.
In short
Retaliation occurs when a landlord takes adverse action against a tenant because the tenant exercised a legal right—such as complaining about conditions, requesting repairs, joining a tenant group, or reporting code violations. Retaliatory evictions, rent increases, or harassment are generally illegal.
You are allowed to complain about repairs, report violations, and use your rights. If your landlord responds with an eviction, rent hike, or harassment, that may be illegal retaliation. Knowing the law helps you push back.
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Evidence includes: timing (adverse action soon after your complaint), written records of your complaints, and lack of other legitimate reason for the action. Some states presume retaliation if the action occurs within a certain period (e.g., 6 months).
You may have a defense to eviction, a claim for damages, or in some states a right to recover multiple months' rent. Document everything and contact a tenant lawyer or legal aid.
Not for good-faith complaints about conditions or for exercising legal rights. If the eviction is primarily because you complained or reported violations, it may be illegal retaliation. The landlord may claim other reasons, so documentation is important.
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