When a person rents a home or apartment, they are typically at the mercy of the landlord. Problems such as appliance failure, mold and leaky roofs can make a house not feel like “home”. Tenants can Browse our website to learn what to do when a landlord fails to fix serious issues in a rental property.
Give Proper Notice
The first step may sound obvious, but it is commonly overlooked. Tenants must give their landlords notice of defects within the property. In most cases, a lease contains a provision detailing notice requirements. Some areas may have landlord/tenant laws with notice requirements as well. It is important for tenants to comply with notice requirements, as they can help establish rights and avoid liability.
Rent Withholding
Withholding rent payments is the way many tenants deal with unanswered maintenance requests. Most jurisdictions permit tenants to hold rent back if the landlord fails to maintain the property, and if the failure renders the home uninhabitable. Examples can include flooding, missing roofs and other problems that expose the tenant to the elements or to hazardous conditions. Rules vary by location, and a tenant should consult a Real Estate Lawyer in Huntersville NC to determine the right course of action.
Reporting Conditions To The Housing Authority
Some areas have agencies that monitor the condition of rental units. These housing agencies help tenants protect their rights, and they may act on a tenant’s behalf if a landlord fails to make repairs in a timely manner. However, in some cases a residence may be condemned. This is done only in extreme cases, but it can put a tenant in a bad situation. Consult a real estate attorney to determine the consequences of reporting unsafe conditions to a housing authority.
Legal Action Against A Landlord
A tenant has the right to sue his or her landlord. Most people prefer to settle out of court, especially when litigation costs are considered, but sometimes a lawsuit is the only way to get dangerous conditions fixed. Many jurisdictions allow tenants to recover attorney fees and court costs after a successful case.
A Real Estate Lawyer in Huntersville NC can handle tenant/landlord disputes, and laws vary depending on the location. It is best to consult an attorney before choosing a plan of action, and a lawyer can help a tenant file or defend against a lawsuit.
