What does "constructive eviction" mean in Montana landlord-tenant law?

Constructive eviction refers to a situation where a landlord’s actions or the conditions of the rental property make it uninhabitable for the tenant, effectively forcing them to leave. In Montana landlord-tenant law, if a landlord fails to maintain the property, such as neglecting essential repairs or allowing conditions that render the unit unsafe or unusable, the tenant may claim constructive eviction. This means that the landlord has not fulfilled their obligations to provide a livable environment, leading the tenant to have no choice but to vacate the premises.

Understanding this concept is crucial for both landlords and tenants, as it emphasizes the responsibility of landlords to maintain rental properties adequately. If a tenant can prove constructive eviction, they may have legal grounds to terminate the lease and seek damages. Other choices revolve around actions or policies that do not involve making the property uninhabitable, such as evicting a tenant legally, changing locks without notice, or increasing rent, which do not encapsulate the essence of constructive eviction.