Alabama Tenant Rights
Alabama has limited statutory tenant protections compared to most states — the Alabama Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act applies only to counties that have specifically adopted it, leaving many renters covered solely by common law.
Key Laws by Topic
Eviction Laws
- Notice Period:
- 30 days written notice for month-to-month tenancy termination
- Just Cause Required:
- No statewide just-cause requirement
- Cure Or Quit Period:
- 14 days to cure a lease violation before landlord may terminate
- Non Payment Notice:
- 7 days notice to pay or quit for nonpayment of rent (in counties that adopted URLTA)
Security Deposit Laws
- Limit:
- 1 month's rent
- Return Deadline:
- 60 days after tenancy termination and return of possession
- Interest Required:
- No
- Itemization Required:
- Yes — written itemized statement of deductions required
- Permissible Deductions:
- Unpaid rent, damage beyond normal wear and tear
Repair & Habitability Laws
- Repair And Deduct:
- Not codified in state law under the general URLTA adoption
- Rent Withholding:
- Limited — tenant may terminate agreement after notice and failure to repair
- Habitability Standard:
- Landlord must maintain premises fit for human habitation per Ala. Code § 35-9A-204[ not confirmed ]
- Notice Required:
- 14 days written notice to landlord before tenant may exercise remedies
Tenant Harassment Laws
- Anti Harassment:
- No specific anti-harassment statute; general retaliation protections apply
- Penalties:
- Tenant may recover actual damages and obtain injunctive relief under retaliation statute
- Retaliation Prohibited:
- Yes — retaliation within 6 months of a protected tenant action is presumed retaliatory
Notice & Entry Laws
- Notice Required:
- 2 days advance notice for non-emergency entry
- Emergency Entry:
- Landlord may enter without notice in case of emergency
- Permissible Reasons:
- Repairs, inspections, showing unit to prospective tenants or buyers
- Time Of Entry:
- Must be at reasonable times
Legal Aid Resources
Alabama Volunteer Lawyers Program
Statewide Alabama
Need Personalized Guidance?
Our free wizard helps you identify your specific issue and find the right next steps.
Not Legal Advice. This site provides general educational information only — not legal counsel. Laws vary by location. Consult a qualified attorney for advice on your specific situation.