Right to Collect Rent and Set Rental Terms

Landlords in North Carolina have the right to collect rent on time as agreed in the lease. You may set the rental amount, security deposit, late fees, and other financial terms, provided these are clearly disclosed in the lease and comply with state limits (for example, security deposits are capped at two months’ rent for long-term leases and one and a half months’ rent for month-to-month agreements). North Carolina does not have statewide rent control, so you can raise rent as you see fit once a lease term ends, provided you give proper notice (typically 7 days for month-to-month leases).



Right to Enter the Property

Landlords have the right to enter their rental property for legitimate reasons, such as repairs, inspections, or to show the property to prospective tenants or buyers. While North Carolina law does not specify a required notice period for entry, best practice is to provide at least 24–48 hours’ notice and to enter during reasonable hours, except in emergencies when immediate access is allowed.



Right to Security Deposits and Deductions

You have the right to collect a security deposit and use it to cover unpaid rent, damages beyond normal wear and tear, late fees, unpaid utility bills, or costs for removing abandoned belongings. Landlords must hold security deposits in a federally insured trust account and provide written notice to the tenant about where the deposit is held. After the tenant moves out, you must return the remaining deposit within 30 days, along with an itemized list of any deductions.

Right to Enforce Lease Terms and Evict When Necessary

Landlords have the right to enforce all legal terms of the lease, including rules about rent payment, property maintenance, and tenant conduct. If a tenant violates the lease (such as by failing to pay rent, damaging the property, or disturbing neighbors), you have the right to begin eviction proceedings. For nonpayment of rent, you must provide a 10-day notice to pay or quit before filing for eviction. For other breaches, the required notice depends on the lease terms and the nature of the violation.



Right to Recover Possession of the Property

If a tenant’s lease ends or is terminated for cause, you have the right to regain possession of your property. For month-to-month leases, you caBan end the tenancy with a 7-day written notice. For fixed-term leases, you can choose not to renew at the end of the term without providing a reason, as long as you follow the lease and state notice requirements.

Right to Non-Interference and Legal Recourse

You have the right to expect tenants to pay rent, care for the property, and not interfere with other tenants or neighbors. If tenants violate these responsibilities, you can seek remedies through the courts, including eviction and claims for damages. You are also protected from tenant retaliation for exercising your legal rights.



Right to Fair Screening and Non-Discrimination

Landlords can screen applicants based on credit, rental history, income, and references, provided the process is applied equally to all applicants. However, you must comply with federal and state fair housing laws, which prohibit discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, familial status, or disability.



Right to Lease Enforcement and Legal Disclosures

You have the right to require a written lease agreement that sets out all terms and expectations. North Carolina law requires landlords to make certain disclosures, such as lead-based paint hazards (for properties built before 1978), security deposit information, and water contamination if applicable.



Important Limitations and Responsibilities

While landlords have significant rights, these are balanced by important legal responsibilities. You must provide habitable housing, comply with all health and safety codes, make timely repairs, and respect your tenants’ rights to privacy and due process. You cannot retaliate against tenants for exercising their legal rights, enter the property without a valid reason, or discriminate against protected classes.

North Carolina landlords have the right to collect rent, enforce leases, enter and recover their property, collect and deduct from security deposits, and screen tenants fairly. By understanding and exercising these rights within the framework of state law, you can protect your investment, avoid legal disputes, and build a successful rental business.