Kansas has many rules and statutes regulating its housing market. These must be fully considered when preparing an application for rental properties in the state.
Application Fee
Landlords can charge any fee they choose for a rental application, as these are not limited by Kansas statutes. The fee that is paid is also non-refundable to the tenant.
Security Deposit
Landlords cannot charge more than 1 months’ rent if they are leasing an unfurnished apartment under Kansas law (KSA § 58-2550). However, landlords with furnished properties can charge up to 1 and a half month’s rent. You may also require an additional half month’s rent if the tenant(s) will keep pets on the property.
Housing Discrimination Law
There are no set laws in Kansas that specifically limit housing discrimination. However, all states must adhere to the Fair Housing Act (FHA). The FHA is a federal law that prevents landlords from discriminating against tenants based on their:
- Race
- Nationality
- Religion
- Sex
- Familial status
- Disability
- Criminal history
Notice of Eligibility
Potential tenants must be informed about the screening criteria and reasons for possible denial or approval in advance. To prove that this information has been shared, a signature of acknowledgment must be provided within the application or alongside it.
Consent Credit Check
Under the Federal Credit Reporting Act (FCRA), tenants being screened in Kansas must consent to any credit checks you wish to carry out. To make sure you comply with the law, the applicant must provide written acknowledgment of the screening on the application form.