Tenant Associations

What is a Tenant Association: Tenant associations are organized and formed by groups of tenants for the purpose of representing their interests. Like unions, these associations draw their power and influence from the number of their members -- the principle of organizing the masses. Their reach varies. Some tenant associations are between tenants of a single apartment complex. Others associations represent tenants in an entire neighborhood, town or city.

The Purposes of a Tenant Association: Educating Tenants on Their Rights

There are federal, state and local laws that protect tenants' interests. One of the purposes of a tenant association is to keep tenants abreast of these rights and protections.

Protecting Tenants' Interests

Tenant associations work to protect the interests of tenants in a variety of ways. Some associations try to effect change at the policy level by lobbying local and county governments for laws that benefit tenants. Others strive for direct improvements by working with landlords to improve relations and building conditions.

The Rights of Tenant Associations: According to FindLaw.com, landlords cannot forbid tenants from organizing into an association. They cannot punish them by raising their rent, refusing to make repairs or evicting tenants based on their participation in an tenants association. They also cannot prevent them from using their building's common spaces to hold meetings.