Due to the overwhelming amount of landlord/tenant law questions to our firm, Atkins & Markoff would like to provide some basic information via our website. This does not constitute legal advice. Our firm does not currently handle landlord/tenant issues and we cannot provide legal advice via phone calls or email at this time. We apologize for this inconvenience; however, we hope that the information contained in the website will answer the majority of your questions.

Oklahoma Landlord Tenant Law Overview

The Oklahoma Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (ORLTA) regulates the rights and duties of both landlords and tenants in residential rentals. Any provision of a lease, whether written or oral, which conflicts with ORLTA is void and unenforceable.

Rental agreements generally set the length of the rental (i.e., a one-year lease). If the agreement does not set a term, the tenancy is usually presumed to be month-to-month. If the term is for more than one year, the contract must be in writing.

Generally, a lease cannot be changed during its term unless both parties agree to the change. A landlord has the right to adopt rules and regulations for the management and care of the premises, as long as they apply fairly to all tenants. Rules which are in effect when the lease is signed are binding. If a rule is adopted after the lease is signed, if the rule makes a material change in the tenant/tenants obligations or liability, then the lease is not binding unless the tenant consents in writing. Usually, rules which restrict the tenant/tenants use of the premises or which impose more costs are found to be material changes.

Adherence to these stipulations is paramount in establishing a mutually beneficial landlord/tenant relationship. Should you feel those stipulations are being violated, contact a knowledgeable attorney from Atkins & Markoff as soon as possible.