What is the concept of "constructive eviction"?

The concept of "constructive eviction" refers to a situation where a landlord's failure to provide essential services—such as heat, water, or maintenance—renders the rental property uninhabitable or significantly diminishes its use and enjoyment. In this context, it is considered that the landlord has effectively forced the tenant to leave the premises, even if the landlord has not formally evicted the tenant through legal means. This principle protects tenants from the consequences of a landlord's negligence regarding their responsibilities to maintain a safe and habitable living environment.

In contrast, the other options do not correctly define constructive eviction. Eviction due to non-payment is a formal legal process and does not involve landlord neglect. Selling a property without notifying tenants may breach lease agreements but does not necessarily lead to constructive eviction; it may simply require the new owner to honor existing tenant rights. Lastly, tenants leaving voluntarily does not imply any fault or failure on the landlord's part and does not relate to the concept of constructive eviction.