3 Types Of Real Estate Laws You Need To Know

30 September 2021
 Categories: Law, Blog

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The real estate market is ever-changing, and it's easy to find yourself in a difficult position if you don't know what you're doing. Luckily, understanding the basics of real estate laws can help you better understand your rights and how to exercise them. They can also help you to select the right lawyer to represent you if you have any legal disputes. Here are three types of real estate laws you need to know about.

1. Zoning Laws

Zoning laws regulate the types of buildings, and land uses allowed in a particular area. For example, offices and apartments may be prohibited in an area zoned for residential use, while industrial parks might not be permitted on land designated as agricultural property. If you own a plot of land and want to build a house on it, zoning laws will determine whether or not your plan is permissible.

These laws may also dictate how big a building can be in relation to the size of the lot or set rules for parking lots and garages. They also regulate the placement of buildings on a plot. Every city has different zoning restrictions. A real estate lawyer can help you know the restrictions in your area.  

2. Easement Laws

An easement is a real estate law that gives an individual or entity (public utility, government agency) the right to use someone else's land for certain purposes. Easements are often used in conjunction with public utilities like power companies and telephone lines. For example, if you have a gas line running through your neighbor's property, it might be necessary for them to grant you an easement to enable you to access the gas line. The agreement can allow temporary or permanent access. You need the help of a real estate lawyer when drafting such an agreement to ensure you follow all the legal procedures.

3. Landlord and Tenant Law

Most people are familiar with this real estate law. It governs all rental agreements and sets out the rights and responsibilities of landlords and tenants. When a tenant signs a lease, they receive an exclusive possession for a specific period in exchange for certain payments such as rent or property taxes. The landlord can charge late fees if those monthly rents aren't paid on time or damage charges if there is any damage to the building caused by the tenant during their occupancy. In some cases, the owner may evict you from the property. Such an eviction should take place after proper notice has been given. If the landlord doesn't follow the due process, a tenant can file a claim through a real estate attorney.

It's important to be aware of the real estate laws in your state so you don't accidentally break them. If you are wondering what rules apply to you, seek help from a real estate attorney.

For more information about Real Estate Law, contact a company like the Law Office of Steven Kurlander.