NC S644

Clarifies and reaffirms landlords' authority to recover out-of-pocket expenses and litigation costs in summary ejectment proceedings, including court filing fees, service of process costs, and reasonable attorneys' fees up to 15% of amount owed or monthly rent.

Allows landlords to charge late fees on residential rent only if payment is 5 or more days late: up to $15 or 5% of monthly rent (whichever is greater) for monthly payments, or up to $4 or 5% of weekly rent for weekly payments.

Permits landlords to charge administrative fees for complaint filing (up to $15 or 5% of monthly rent) and court appearance (10% of monthly rent) under specific conditions, with landlord entitled to only one such fee per proceeding.

Establishes that criminal records of prospective or current tenants and guests do not create foreseeability of injury or damage, and prohibits requirement for landlords to screen for or refuse to rent based on criminal records.

Modifies property collection procedures for decedents' estates by increasing thresholds for surviving spouses from $20,000 to $30,000 and allowing administrators to dispose of personal property left in rental premises.