Landlord and tenant rights are protected by both federal and state laws. Federal laws concerning landlord and tenant rights include rights pertaining to disabled tenants and tenants using Federal housing programs. Federal laws protect tenants against discrimination, harassment, and illegal eviction. Tenants also have the right to live in a safe and ﾓhabitableﾔ dwelling that complies with building codes. State laws may give other, specific rights, though laws vary and some states offer more landlord and tenant rights that others. Generally, most states have laws ensuring a tenant's right to basic privacy, while also allowing landlords the right to enter a rental property when needed. Tenants have a basic right to heat and water, therefore it is illegal for a landlord to shut off a tenant's utilities in order to force a tenant out of a property. Landlord and tenant rights also ensure fair and legal evictions, and allow all parties to defend themselves in court.