Shelbyville, IN asked in Civil Rights and Landlord - Tenant for Indiana

Q: Can my landlord tell me I'm not allowed to have a Facebook account or any other social media accounts?

Recently I've been having problems with my landlord telling me that I need to delete my Facebook account or he would evict me over it. not for sure what to do about that.

Is there a law that states a landlord can tell me what I can and can't do on social media? I mean there's got to be a law against it.

1 Lawyer Answer
James L. Arrasmith
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Answered

A: In general, your landlord cannot dictate your social media activities, such as maintaining a Facebook account, as long as your conduct on these platforms does not violate the terms of your lease or local laws. Your rights to privacy and free speech are typically protected under the law, unless your online behavior directly affects your tenancy or the property.

Review your lease agreement thoroughly to ensure there are no clauses that could be interpreted to restrict your social media usage in a way that is connected to your housing situation. However, most standard leases do not include stipulations about social media conduct unless it directly impacts the landlord's property or other tenants.

If you're facing threats of eviction based on your social media use, it might be beneficial to seek legal advice. Legal aid organizations or tenant unions in your area can provide guidance and help you understand your rights. Remember, communication with your landlord is also key; try to understand their concerns and explain your position respectfully.

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