DocketXLandlord
A landlord is a person or entity that owns a property and rents it to another person, called a tenant, under a lease or rental agreement.
What it actually is
In a legal case, the term 'landlord' refers to the party who grants the right to occupy real property in exchange for rent. The landlord is typically the plaintiff in an eviction or breach-of-lease action, or the defendant in a suit over habitability, security deposit, or discrimination. The legal relationship is defined by the lease contract and by state landlord-tenant law.
Why it matters in your case
Whether you are the landlord or the tenant determines which legal duties and rights apply to you, such as the obligation to maintain the property or the right to collect rent. Properly identifying the landlord is essential because only the correct party can bring or defend certain claims, such as eviction or rent abatement.
The common misunderstanding
Many people mistakenly believe that a property manager is the landlord legally, but a manager is usually an agent of the landlord and not the actual owner responsible for legal obligations. Also, a landlord does not have to be a person—it can be a corporation, LLC, or trust.
Get the actual rule
Definitions are orientation; rules are authority
This page explains the concept. When it matters to your case, read the rule that governs it in your court — we hold Texas, federal and Washington court rules word for word, and every state's official resources are on the state pages. If someone cites a case at you, check that it exists first.
Related
Terms that travel with this one
General explanation, not legal advice, and not specific to any state — procedures and deadlines vary by jurisdiction and court. If you can get a lawyer or free legal aid, do: every real option.