What rights do tenants possess under North Carolina law?

Tenants in North Carolina possess the right to habitable living conditions, which is a crucial element of tenant rights under the law. This right is grounded in the principle that landlords must maintain rental properties in a condition that is safe and suitable for living. This includes ensuring that essential services such as water, heat, and electricity are functioning, and that the property is free from pests and structural defects.

This aspect of tenant rights is often referred to as the "implied warranty of habitability," which holds landlords accountable for providing a livable environment. If a property is not habitable, tenants have legal grounds to seek repairs or potentially terminate the lease without penalties.

In contrast, the other options do not accurately reflect tenant rights under North Carolina law. For instance, while tenants may sometimes rent without a formal lease, this is not a guaranteed right and can lead to disputes. The right to sublet is typically subject to the landlord's approval, which means tenants cannot automatically sublet without permission. Similarly, making alterations to a rental property usually requires the landlord's consent, as unauthorized changes can violate lease agreements and lead to potential eviction or other consequences.