When it comes to resolving landlord or roommate disputes, knowing the laws in your area is absolutely vital, but what most people don’t realize is that laws concerning renter’s rights vary widely from place to place and from state to state. If you have recently moved to a new area and are thinking about renting an apartment, there are a few necessary things you should do to update yourself on the laws and rules in your area.

Your first stop should be online. The internet age has ushered in a slew of consumer protection websites that can assist you in leaning what the laws are in your new state as far as renting goes. Most major cities have renter’s rights groups that have their own website, and sometimes they even have a free 1-800 number you can call to learn about specific problems you are experiencing. Bookmark any sites you find like this for your area since you never know when you might need them in the future.

If you can’t find any up to date websites in your area that have this information, check out your copy of the Yellow Pages. They often have lists of non profit groups in your area that might be of use to you.

Finally, if all else fails, contact a lawyer in your new state, and they will likely point you in the general direction. The electronic age has afforded us significant leaps in communication so don’t get caught flat footed if you need to know your rental rights in your new state.