FTC Mailing $47M to 444,000 Renters Who Paid Hidden Fees

If you rented from Invitation Homes between 2021 and 2024, check your mailbox for a surprise refund.

The Federal Trade Commission is sending out $47.2 million in checks to more than 444,000 renters who paid hidden fees to one of America's largest corporate landlords. Invitation Homes, which manages over 110,000 single-family rental homes across 13 states, settled with the FTC after allegedly deceiving tenants with undisclosed charges.

The company operates heavily in cities like Atlanta, Tampa, Phoenix, Charlotte, and Denver. Renters in these areas who paid at least $45 in certain fees during the eligibility period will receive checks averaging around $106.

The FTC sued Invitation Homes in September 2024 for multiple deceptive practices. The company allegedly hid true lease costs from applicants, charged undisclosed fees, failed to inspect homes before move-in, and unfairly withheld security deposits when tenants moved out.

Invitation Homes also required renters to pay for services they couldn't opt out of, including smart home technology. Many tenants discovered these charges only after signing their leases.

The Ripple Effect

This settlement does more than put money back in renters' pockets. It sets a new standard for transparency in the corporate rental industry.

As part of the agreement, Invitation Homes must now clearly disclose all leasing prices upfront. The company has already updated its rental listings to include breakdowns of fees included in the total rent.

The settlement also requires the landlord to establish fair policies for handling security deposit refunds. These changes will protect future renters from similar surprise charges.

Eligible renters don't need to apply or take any action. The FTC will automatically mail checks to those who qualify and haven't already received credits or refunds from the company.

Recipients have 90 days to cash their checks once received. Anyone with questions about eligibility can contact the FTC directly through their settlement administration process.

Sometimes justice comes in the mail, and this time it's bringing nearly half a million people the refunds they deserve.