Okla. Stat. tit. 41 § 135
Construction of Act
Operative Text
This act shall be liberally construed and applied to promote and effectuate its underlying purposes and policies.
Oklahoma's Residential Landlord and Tenant Act, under 41 O.S. § 135, includes a directive that courts and other interpreting bodies should read the law broadly and in a manner that advances its core goals of protecting the landlord-tenant relationship. This means that when ambiguities arise in the statute's language, decision-makers are generally expected to favor interpretations that further the Act's underlying purposes rather than narrowing its reach. The provision signals a legislative intent that the Act function as a living, purposive framework rather than a rigid technical code.
Plain English — not legal advice.
Under 41 O.S. § 135, the Act's liberal construction principle means that courts may interpret landlord obligations broadly when the statutory text is unclear. Property owners and managers who operate with the spirit of the Act in mind—maintaining habitable conditions, providing proper notices, and following prescribed procedures—are generally better positioned when disputes arise. Familiarity with the Act's stated purposes can help operators understand how ambiguous provisions are likely to be applied.
General guidance for property managers — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult an attorney for advice on your case.
Section 41 O.S. § 135 establishes that the Residential Landlord and Tenant Act is meant to be read broadly in favor of its underlying protective purposes, which can be relevant when a tenant raises a statutory right as a defense or claim. When a provision's meaning is disputed, this construction rule may support interpretations that uphold tenant protections. Tenants who believe their rights under the Act have been affected may consider consulting a tenant-rights organization or legal aid office to understand how this interpretive principle might apply to their circumstances.
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 18, 2026 — auto-generated, not yet human-reviewed. See /transparency for methodology.
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