Under what circumstances can a tenant terminate a lease without penalty in Oregon?

A tenant in Oregon can terminate a lease without penalty in cases of domestic violence or uninhabitable living conditions because the law provides specific protections for tenants facing these issues.

When a tenant is the victim of domestic violence, Oregon law allows them to break their lease early to ensure their safety without facing penalties. This is crucial in providing protection for individuals in potentially dangerous situations.

Additionally, if the rental property is determined to be uninhabitable—meaning it does not meet the basic health and safety standards outlined by Oregon law—a tenant has the right to terminate the lease. Uninhabitable conditions could include issues like lack of heating, leaking roofs, or plumbing problems that severely affect the tenant's ability to live in the unit safely.

These provisions in the law help safeguard tenants’ rights and health, emphasizing the importance of safe and secure housing. In contrast, the other options do not align with the specific legal grounds provided for early lease termination in Oregon. For example, while management changes or rental price increases may be challenging for tenants, they do not qualify for immediate lease termination under state law. Likewise, property foreclosure may affect the rental agreement but does not automatically grant tenants the right to terminate their lease without consequences.