Tropical weather threatening your vacation plans? Know your renter's rights

Has tropical weather put your summer vacation plans in limbo?

If so, you should know your rights under North Carolina law when it comes to getting a refund on a rental property.

The North Carolina Attorney General's Office says landlords are required under state law to provide a written agreement that spells out the rights and responsibilities of both the landlord and the tenant.

That usually includes information about cancellation policies and travel insurance.

If you’re ordered to leave as part of a mandatory evacuation, the Attorney General's Office, says, and you were not given a chance to purchase insurance, the landlord is required to refund your money for each night you can’t stay at the rental property.

If you are offered that insurance and choose not to buy it, the landlord does not have to refund your money – even if there is a mandatory evacuation.

The same goes if you miss out on a couple of days, are unhappy that a walkway or pool is no longer usable or just decide that you don't want to go because of damage nearby.

Without rental insurance, don't expect compensation.

Many landlords are willing to work with tenants by either giving them credit for a future stay or switching dates, but you should check in advance.