I've been wondering about this.. .

This is an important point in landlord-tenant issues, that the tenant has already "established legal residence". Having mail come in their name? I don't know about you, but we get mail all the time addressed to my adult children who have never lived here, as well as mail addressed to former roommates and owners. The Post Office delivers by address, not name. All it takes is to fill out a form for a subscription, etc. and presto, mail comes addressed to you at a property 300 miles away.

Or is it by having utilities in your name? This would be a better way to prove residency, although many times a landlord pays utilities.

Thanks for any input!

*jimmy in MD

It's a combination of many factors. Receiving mail at the address is certainly one way. But not just any mail. Bills, bank statements or other official documents. If your claim is based on solely on magazine subscriptions its not likely to fly. Utilities is another sign, yes landlords often pay heating and electrical, but usually not telephone or cable TV services.

Having furniture and possessions on the premises can be another sign. There may be other factors as well.