Kentucky Landlord Required Disclosures Before Move-In

Before moving into a rental unit in Kentucky, renters need to know what disclosures and information landlords must provide by law. Making sure you receive these details can help protect your rights, avoid misunderstandings, and ensure a smoother start to your tenancy. Let's explore what Kentucky law says about required landlord disclosures and what to expect as you move in.

What Disclosures Must a Landlord Provide Before Move-In?

Kentucky law requires landlords to share certain information with renters prior to move-in. This promotes transparency and helps renters know who is responsible for property management and maintenance.

1. Name and Address of Owner and Property Manager

• Requirement: The landlord must provide in writing the name and address of the property owner and any person authorized to act on their behalf (such as a property manager).
• When Provided: This information must be given before or at the start of the tenancy, usually as part of the rental agreement.
• Purpose: So renters know who to contact about repairs, notices, or legal issues.
• Reference: See Kentucky Revised Statutes Section 383.585.

2. Move-In Inspection and Condition Report

• Requirement: If a security deposit is collected, the landlord must provide a comprehensive list of existing damages and needed repairs to the unit.
• Form Name: Move-In/Move-Out Inspection Checklist (no state-issued form, but the requirement is clear).
• When Provided: Prior to taking possession of the unit, and the renter must be allowed to inspect and add comments to the checklist.
• Purpose: To document the condition of the rental and protect both landlord and tenant interests regarding deposit deductions later.
• Reference: See KRS Section 383.580.

3. Security Deposit Rules and Receipts

• Landlords who collect a security deposit must clearly state where it will be held (the name and address of the bank or institution).
• Tenants are entitled to a written receipt or documentation detailing the amount and location of the deposit.
• Reference: KRS 383.580.

4. Lead-Based Paint Disclosure (If Built Before 1978)

• For any property built before 1978, landlords must give tenants a federally required Lead-Based Paint Disclosure Form and the EPA's Protect Your Family From Lead in Your Home booklet.
• This is a nationwide requirement—important for renters with children or anyone concerned with health and safety.

What Are Renters’ Rights If Disclosures Aren’t Made?

If a landlord fails to provide the required disclosures, it could affect your ability to enforce or challenge certain provisions of the lease. For example, if the name and address of the owner or manager are not provided, the person collecting rent may be held responsible for the landlord's duties. If a move-in inspection is not offered, the landlord may lose the right to keep some or all of your security deposit for damages not listed on the original record.

Renter Action Steps

• Always ask your landlord to provide the required written disclosures before you move in.
• If a security deposit is collected, request a joint walk-through and make notes or take dated photos.
• Keep copies of all documents and receipts provided to you.
• If you did not receive the required disclosures, send a polite written request to your landlord documenting your concerns.
• If you still don’t receive disclosures, contact your local housing authority or the relevant agency in Kentucky.

Tip: If you’re unsure about a disclosure, ask for clarification in writing. This creates a clear record of your communication.

Where to Find the Law and Submit Complaints

Kentucky’s primary residential tenancy legislation is the Kentucky Revised Statutes – Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (URLTA), though it only applies in participating cities or counties. For questions or disputes, renters may reach out to the Kentucky Office of the Attorney General – Landlord/Tenant Resources. There is currently no single statewide residential tenancies tribunal; most landlord-tenant disputes may go to the local District Court in areas that have adopted URLTA. Check with your city or county government for details.

FAQ: Kentucky Landlord Move-In Disclosures

1. What disclosures must my landlord give me before moving in?
   Landlords must provide the owner/manager’s contact information, a move-in inspection checklist (if collecting a security deposit), and details of where your security deposit is held (if applicable). In buildings built before 1978, a lead-based paint disclosure is required.
2. What happens if my landlord does not give me the inspection checklist?
   If a landlord collects a security deposit but fails to provide this checklist, they may lose the right to keep all or part of your deposit for damages not listed when you move in.
3. Is my landlord required to give me a copy of the rental agreement?
   While not always required by state law, it is best practice—and many local ordinances do require—that you get a copy of the signed rental agreement for your records.
4. How can I verify if URLTA applies in my city or county?
   Contact your local government or look up information on the Kentucky Attorney General's Landlord/Tenant page to check if your area follows these rules.
5. Where do I go if my landlord still doesn’t comply?
   If the landlord refuses to comply, you can contact the Kentucky Office of the Attorney General or file a small claims case in your local District Court.
   

Summary and Key Takeaways

• Kentucky landlords must share their contact details and, if collecting a security deposit, provide written checklists and deposit information before renters move in.
• Failure to provide required disclosures could limit what a landlord may deduct from your deposit.
• When in doubt, ask for all required documents in writing and keep good records.

Knowing your rights before move-in sets the foundation for a successful rental experience.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Kentucky Office of the Attorney General – Landlord/Tenant Resources: Guidance and complaint process
• Kentucky District Courts: Handles residential landlord-tenant case filings in applicable counties
• HUD Kentucky Rental Information: Federal renter resources for Kentucky

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1. Kentucky Revised Statutes Section 383.585 – Landlord Disclosure of Owner/Manager
2. Kentucky Revised Statutes Section 383.580 – Security Deposit Requirements
3. EPA – Lead-Based Paint Disclosure Information
4. Kentucky Office of the Attorney General – Landlord/Tenant Statutes and Resources

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