View Full Version : Concerned Mother
goodwillcl
Apr 16, 2007, 08:20 PM
Hi my name is Christy.
I just moved out of my trailer without paying rent. Im feeling kind of guilty, however I have asked my lanlord numerous times to fix a leak in my bathroom. They have had 5 months to fix it and mold has grown up the wall in my bedroom. My children have not been sick once since we moved into our new home. I don't know what to do my credit is important and I don't know what I should do?
Lillian42
Apr 16, 2007, 08:25 PM
You should tell your landlord the reason you have moved and tell him you refuse to pay because he kept your house in such bad shape. If your kids were getting sick because of the house that's a health hazard and landlords cannot have a house in that shape and rent to people.
goodwillcl
Apr 16, 2007, 08:28 PM
What steps would I take to keep from ruining my credit? What if they take me to court?
excon
Apr 16, 2007, 08:34 PM
Hello good:
There are remedies in the law that you didn't partake in, and you split instead. He can sue you for the rent and you have no defense. He'll win a judgment, garnish your wages and attach your bank account. It ain't going to do your credit any good, either.
excon
LuvMyMaltipoo
Apr 16, 2007, 08:50 PM
Did you put work orders in? Were they in writing? Laws vary from state to state but I had the same problem last year. The proper steps to take (for future reference) are:
1. Put an order (in writing) the things that should be fixed, and keep a copy for yourself.
2. If it's not properly fixed within a reasonable amount of time send the landlord a notarized letter stating why you are withholding rent and when you will be leaving.
If you don't have copies of a work order there is no proof that he wouldn't fix your property and chances are, you will be at fault.
Matt3046
Apr 16, 2007, 09:11 PM
How much money are we talking about?
Did you take pixs? Always take pictures of everything. A voice recorder is not a bad idea either. Sorry I am off topic. Did you have a lease? Did the lease state that he was responsible for repairs? Is there anouther adult that can testify to the damage?