Ala. Code §§ 35-9A-101 to 35-9A-603 § 35-9A-426
Remedy After Termination.
Operative Text
If a rental agreement is terminated, the landlord has a claim for possession and for rent and a separate claim for actual damages for breach of the rental agreement and reasonable attorney’s fees.
Under Alabama Code § 35-9A-426, when a rental agreement is terminated—whether by the landlord or through a legal process—the landlord retains the right to pursue two distinct types of claims: one for recovering possession of the property and any unpaid rent, and a separate one for actual damages caused by the breach of the agreement, along with reasonable attorney's fees. These claims can be pursued independently of one another, meaning the end of the tenancy does not extinguish the landlord's right to seek financial compensation. This provision establishes the remedies available after termination rather than creating new grounds for termination itself.
Plain English — not legal advice.
Under § 35-9A-426 of the Alabama Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act, operators whose rental agreements have been terminated are generally entitled to pursue both a claim for possession and unpaid rent and a separate claim for actual damages resulting from the breach. Compliant operators typically document all losses—such as property damage, lost rent, and costs incurred—to support a damages claim. Keeping thorough records of the rental agreement, payment history, and any breach-related expenses is a practice consistent with being positioned to assert these remedies.
General guidance for property managers — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult an attorney for advice on your case.
Section § 35-9A-426 of the Alabama Code means that even after a tenancy ends, a landlord may still bring legal claims against a former tenant for actual damages and attorney's fees stemming from an alleged breach of the rental agreement. Tenants should be aware that termination of the lease does not necessarily close the door on financial liability. Those who believe a landlord's damages claim is overstated or improper may wish to consult a tenant-rights organization or legal aid service familiar with Alabama landlord-tenant law to understand available defenses.
General guidance for tenants — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult a tenant-rights organization or attorney for advice on your case.
Generated October 16, 2026 — auto-generated, not yet human-reviewed. See /transparency for methodology.
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