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dorne · Feb 15, 2009, 05:52 PM

I live in buffalo ny and rent a single, private home. My landlord added in the lease that I am 100% responcable for maintaining and fixing if broke the furnice, all plumbing etc. I signed it in fear of having to move on short notice. Well the furnice isn't working, I have no heat and no money for repair. Is this lease legal? Thank you dorne

JJCH · Feb 15, 2009, 05:58 PM

If your landlord changed the terms of the lease and you signed the new lease with the new terms clearly stated, I'd say it's legal.

ScottGem · Feb 15, 2009, 06:07 PM

You agreed to it. There is no law that says he can't do it.

Fr_Chuck · Feb 15, 2009, 06:13 PM

God I wish I had tennants that would sign leases like that.

But yes if you signed to be liable for fixing the heat and air, you are
'
Normally if you do take over some liability it is in exchange for a much lower rent, would that be the case?

I know I had some renters that had to pay for any repair of 50 dollars or less and had basically a 50 dollar deductable for repairs they were the cause

excon · Feb 15, 2009, 06:24 PM

Hello d:

I don't know if it's illegal or not. It would appear so, but a contract cannot take away your rights. You have the right not to be treated unconscionably.

It COULD be considered unconscionable for a landlord to require his tenant to cover what would ordinarily be HIS expense.

The worst that could happen is you would LOSE in small claims court. But, even if you win, you'll have to find a new place to live, won't you?

excon