Have a Legal Question?

Get Free Answers From Experienced Lawyers!

Lawyers, increase your visibility by answering questions and getting points. Answer Questions
Utah Landlord - Tenant Questions & Answers
2 Answers | Asked in Collections, Landlord - Tenant, Gov & Administrative Law and Real Estate Law for Utah on
Q: Is it legal for a repossession company to tow with someone inside the vehicle in Utah?

In Ogden, Utah, a repossession company towed my vehicle for a couple of feet while I was still inside it, and police officers were present but did not intervene. They mentioned that they couldn't do anything after the fact and attempted to get me out of the car, but I refused. Is it legal for... View More

Barry W. Kaufman
Barry W. Kaufman
answered on Mar 28, 2025

A couple of feet? The reason that people cannot ride in a towed vehicle, trailer, etc., is because of the possible catastrophic consequences of an accident involving the towed item. You were in no danger whatsoever, and indeed it was your fault for interfering with the repossession agent in the... View More

View More Answers

1 Answer | Asked in Contracts and Landlord - Tenant for Utah on
Q: Can I sue the apartment on a small claim for not fixing my dishwasher when I moved in and they won't fix it.

I moved into an apartment in September and submitted three requests for a dishwasher repair, but it was never fixed. The manager then said there was nothing they could do about it. Knowing the dishwasher was truly broken, I hired a professional to fix it, which they did, and then billed me. I paid... View More

Wesley Winsor
PREMIUM
Wesley Winsor
answered on Feb 10, 2025

The ability to sue your landlord or apartment complex for the cost of repair and partial rent refund depends largely on the terms of your lease or rental agreement, as well as the specific circumstances surrounding the repair. Here's what you should consider:

Lease Agreement: Carefully...
View More

1 Answer | Asked in Landlord - Tenant for Utah on
Q: Have lease, expires May 2025. Landlord wants to sell and has ordered to vacate. Do they have to financial compensate. UT

Landlord won't respond and has ordered to vacate in a week. Causing duress and worry as this would put me homeless with 2 dogs. Wants to sell but have a lease till 2025. What recourse do I have? I know she must honor the lease but it's a form of harassment as she keeps calling and... View More

James L. Arrasmith
PREMIUM
James L. Arrasmith pro label Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
answered on Apr 16, 2024

In Utah, if you have a valid lease that doesn't expire until May 2025, your landlord generally cannot force you to vacate the property before the lease ends, even if they want to sell the property. The lease is a legally binding contract, and the landlord must honor it.

However, there...
View More

1 Answer | Asked in Real Estate Law and Landlord - Tenant for Utah on
Q: I am a Pro Se Defendant a Reply and Submit For Decision have been submitted to the court by the Plaintiff. Options?

I filed my response to the Motion For Summary Judgment and as I said the Reply and Submit For Decision have been filed. Is there anything I can do at this point to stop this Summary Judgment? Can I file to have the case dismissed or respond to the reply? Can I request a hearing? Do I just simply... View More

James L. Arrasmith
PREMIUM
James L. Arrasmith pro label Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
answered on Mar 31, 2024

As a pro se defendant, you have a few options at this stage, but some may be limited depending on the court's rules and the specifics of your case. Here are some potential steps you can consider:

1. Motion to Strike: If the plaintiff's reply contains new evidence or arguments that...
View More

1 Answer | Asked in Landlord - Tenant for Utah on
Q: court today on staking Injunction. I got attacked on 11/17/23 at my apt by neighbor. I got kicked out. From housing

Housing authority I got the staking Injunction before they were going to kick me out. Instead they were going to keep her there. But kick me out. How can I use this in court today.

James L. Arrasmith
PREMIUM
James L. Arrasmith pro label Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
answered on Mar 31, 2024

I'm sorry to hear about the attack and the difficult situation you're facing with housing. Here are a few points that may be helpful as you prepare for court today regarding the stalking injunction:

1. Emphasize your safety concerns: Highlight that you were the victim of an attack...
View More

1 Answer | Asked in Real Estate Law and Landlord - Tenant for Utah on
Q: Anything I should be doing after Plaintiff replied and Submitted for Decision after my Response Opposing Sum. Judgment.
James L. Arrasmith
PREMIUM
James L. Arrasmith pro label Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
answered on Mar 30, 2024

After the plaintiff has replied and submitted the case for decision following your response opposing summary judgment, it's important to stay engaged and prepared. Keep in close communication with your legal representative to understand the next steps. They may advise on whether additional... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Contracts and Landlord - Tenant for Utah on
Q: Can I renegotiate a lease before it’s expired?

My husband wrote a 3 year lease. We just got divorced. Can I renegotiate the terms and get his name off the lease? The HOA increased and the rent does not cover all cost associated with the property. Is there anyway I can change the lease to a yearly lease? Or increase the rent to cover the... View More

Wesley Winsor
PREMIUM
Wesley Winsor
answered on Feb 26, 2024

Landlords may consider renegotiating a lease to adjust terms, such as increasing rent, but it's crucial to remember that tenants are not obligated to consent. This is because tenants currently hold an enforceable contract. Alterations to the lease terms require mutual agreement unless the... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Contracts and Landlord - Tenant for Utah on
Q: Is it legal for apartment management to get you sign a lease agreement for the next year before your lease is up?

They say they didn’t require it but they bribe with lower rent if you sign early.

Wesley Winsor
PREMIUM
Wesley Winsor
answered on Jan 5, 2024

Certainly, it's within legal bounds for your apartment management to offer a lease renewal before your current lease concludes, provided they've been transparent about the process. This is often done to ensure tenancy continuity. If they've proposed an incentive for early renewal,... View More

2 Answers | Asked in Contracts and Landlord - Tenant for Utah on
Q: Is an addendum a form of a lease?

A non-resident rents a garage and signed an addendum , then the apartment wants to raise the fee 100%.

Robert Alex Fleming
Robert Alex Fleming
answered on Jan 5, 2024

In general terms an addendum in a contract is a document that is added to an existing contract to modify, clarify, or add to its terms and conditions. It's generally a legally binding amendment used to make changes to the original contract after it has been signed and must be agreed upon by... View More

View More Answers

2 Answers | Asked in Contracts and Landlord - Tenant for Utah on
Q: Is an addendum a form of a lease?

A non-resident rents a garage and signed an addendum , then the apartment wants to raise the fee 100%.

Wesley Winsor
PREMIUM
Wesley Winsor
answered on Jan 5, 2024

It's essential to review the terms of the contract and the addendum closely. If the agreement specifies a fixed rate for a certain period, any increase that contradicts this would not be permissible. Ensure that the addendum, which is part of the lease, does not grant the landlord the right to... View More

View More Answers

1 Answer | Asked in Civil Litigation, Civil Rights and Landlord - Tenant for Utah on
Q: I submitted my lawsuit complaint on November 17 2023 and it’s hasn’t move from there cant I ask the judge for review

Can I ask the judge to speed up case so I could server defendants to be served

James L. Arrasmith
PREMIUM
James L. Arrasmith pro label Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
answered on Jan 2, 2024

If you haven't already, consider consulting with an attorney experienced in civil litigation. They can provide guidance on the best course of action, help with drafting and filing any necessary motions, and ensure that your case is being handled efficiently.

Remember, while the legal...
View More

1 Answer | Asked in Landlord - Tenant, Contracts, Domestic Violence, Criminal Law and Real Estate Law for Utah on
Q: Can a friend withhold my belongings over a rent dispute and accuse me of trespassing?

I moved my trailer onto a friend's property in Ogden, Utah, and we had a verbal agreement to pay $375 each payday for rent. We had a disagreement after I was late with payment because she was late initially. During an argument, there was a shove, which was caught on tape, and now she... View More

James L. Arrasmith
PREMIUM
James L. Arrasmith pro label Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
answered on Nov 1, 2025

By paying rent under a verbal agreement, you created at least a month‑to‑month tenancy or license under Utah law, even if you are not on the lease. She cannot lawfully lock you out or hold your personal property hostage for more money; only a court eviction followed by a writ of restitution... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Landlord - Tenant and Real Estate Law for Utah on
Q: Can I get my deposit back if I move out before lease starts due to roommate issues in Utah?

I signed a lease online for a place in Utah, and I moved in before the lease officially started. However, due to issues with a roommate who has been rude to me in the past, I decided I wanted to move out before the lease term began. I asked my landlord if I could get my deposit back, but he stated... View More

James L. Arrasmith
PREMIUM
James L. Arrasmith pro label Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
answered on Oct 1, 2025

In Utah, once you’ve signed a lease, you are legally bound to its terms even if the official start date hasn’t arrived yet. By signing, you entered into a contractual agreement, and moving in early only strengthens the argument that the landlord held up their end by providing access to the... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Landlord - Tenant, Personal Injury and Real Estate Law for Utah on
Q: How to break my lease without penalties due to mold and landlord's behavior?

I am currently leasing a basement apartment under a 12-month agreement. I've discovered mold in the shower and have witnessed multiple erratic outbursts from my landlord, including aggressive behavior and inappropriate language during late-night hours. The lease requires me to pay the... View More

James L. Arrasmith
PREMIUM
James L. Arrasmith pro label Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
answered on Sep 19, 2025

You may have grounds to break your lease without penalties if the apartment is uninhabitable or the landlord’s behavior creates a hostile living environment. Mold can be considered a serious health hazard, and if the landlord fails to address it after being notified, this can strengthen your... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Landlord - Tenant, Civil Litigation and Real Estate Law for Utah on
Q: Can landlord harassment and refusal to repair be considered a breach of lease?

I have been facing harassment from my landlord, who claims I have people living in my garage and house, and that there is excessive traffic, none of which is true. She has involved neighbors and even had the police come to investigate these claims. She also removed the garage door despite us having... View More

James L. Arrasmith
PREMIUM
James L. Arrasmith pro label Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
answered on Sep 8, 2025

Yes, a landlord’s behavior like harassment, refusal to repair, or interfering with your use of leased property can be considered a breach of the lease. Leases generally require landlords to provide a habitable and safe living environment and to respect your right to quiet enjoyment of the... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Landlord - Tenant and Real Estate Law for Utah on
Q: Can landlord evict me if I'm current on rent but roommate has legal issues?

I am currently up to date with my rent, which is due on the 25th of each month. Pets are allowed at my rental property. Recently, my roommate's family visited with a dog, which led my landlord to request that I leave the property by the 25th. Despite having already moved out a week ago, my... View More

James L. Arrasmith
PREMIUM
James L. Arrasmith pro label Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
answered on Sep 2, 2025

If you are current on your rent and following the lease terms, your landlord cannot simply evict you without going through the legal eviction process. In most states, landlords must have a legally valid reason such as nonpayment, lease violations, or illegal activity at the property. A visitor... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Landlord - Tenant, Civil Litigation and Real Estate Law for Utah on
Q: Can a person be removed from an eviction case if they moved out after the process started?

Is it against the law to remove a person from an eviction case filed in court if that person has moved out? The eviction process had already started in court and the court has been informed about their change in residence. Would any legal obligations or notices still apply to them?

James L. Arrasmith
PREMIUM
James L. Arrasmith pro label Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
answered on Sep 1, 2025

If someone has already moved out of the property during the eviction process, the landlord can usually request to dismiss them from the case. Courts generally focus eviction orders on people who are still in possession of the property, so if you are no longer living there, you should not be the... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Landlord - Tenant, Civil Litigation and Real Estate Law for Utah on
Q: Notice to comply or vacate due to false accusations, missing lease agreement, and electrical issues in Utah.

My landlord served us a 3-day notice to comply or vacate, claiming we have a homeless family living with us and in the garage, but this isn't true. She received this information from our neighbors, which is false. We haven't received our lease agreement, despite asking for it repeatedly,... View More

James L. Arrasmith
PREMIUM
James L. Arrasmith pro label Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
answered on Jul 26, 2025

Receiving a 3-day notice to comply or vacate based on false accusations is upsetting, especially when you’ve done nothing wrong. If your landlord’s claims are based on neighbor rumors and not facts, you have the right to respond. You can draft a written reply to the notice explaining that the... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Real Estate Law and Landlord - Tenant for Utah on
Q: Can I make exterior changes to my townhouse after HOA canceled coverage?

Over the past two months, my HOA canceled coverage on the exterior of my townhouse, resulting in my insurance changing from an HO6 policy to an HO3 policy. Although the monthly HOA fees were reduced by half, the guidelines still say no exterior modifications. I haven’t spoken to the HOA yet, but... View More

James L. Arrasmith
PREMIUM
James L. Arrasmith pro label Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
answered on Jul 19, 2025

Even though your HOA canceled exterior coverage and reduced fees, you’re still bound by the rules in your HOA’s governing documents. If those documents say that no exterior modifications are allowed without approval, that restriction still applies—regardless of changes to the insurance policy... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Landlord - Tenant and Real Estate Law for Utah on
Q: Eviction for late fees in Utah.

I received a 3-day notice for late rent in Utah, which I have already paid. However, the notice did not mention late fees. In the past, I have paid late fees without issue. Can my landlord evict me specifically for unpaid late fees, even though the rent is already settled?

James L. Arrasmith
PREMIUM
James L. Arrasmith pro label Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
answered on Jul 5, 2025

What you’re experiencing is frustrating, especially after you’ve already taken care of the rent itself. In Utah, a landlord can serve a 3-day notice for nonpayment of rent, which may include additional amounts that are considered part of the rent under your lease—this could include late fees,... View More

Justia Ask A Lawyer is a forum for consumers to get free answers to basic legal questions. Any information sent through Justia Ask A Lawyer is not secure and is done so on a non-confidential basis only.

The use of this website to ask questions or receive answers does not create an attorney–client relationship between Justia and you, or between any attorney who receives your information or responds to your questions and you, nor is it intended to create such a relationship. Additionally, no responses on this forum constitute legal advice, which must be tailored to the specific circumstances of each case. You should not act upon information provided in Justia Ask A Lawyer without seeking professional counsel from an attorney admitted or authorized to practice in your jurisdiction. Justia assumes no responsibility to any person who relies on information contained on or received through this site and disclaims all liability in respect to such information.

Justia cannot guarantee that the information on this website (including any legal information provided by an attorney through this service) is accurate, complete, or up-to-date. While we intend to make every attempt to keep the information on this site current, the owners of and contributors to this site make no claims, promises, or guarantees about the accuracy, completeness or adequacy of the information contained in or linked to from this site.