[HeatherWeitman]

My husband, myself and three kids (18,20 and 21) moved into a leased home December 1, 2011. In the first week our car was broken into because we didn't have access to the garage due to the landlord's stuff being in the garage. The very next week the same car was hit and caused $3500 in damage - hit and run. Reported to police on both occasions. A month later our home was broken into while the two youngest daughters were home. We want to break our 12 month lease and move to a safer environment. We are current on our lease payments.

What are our options? We have spoken with the manager of the property management co and the landlord has agreed to install a security system and pay for the monthly expense. Additionally he may install a security screen door in the back of the home where the robbers came in through.

[ScottGem]

This is generally not sufficient cause to break a lease, especially if the landlord is offering to install a security system.
Break ins are not a landlords fault.

[HeatherWeitman]

Thank you for the answer. I understand that the break in was not the landlord's fault. But the break ins are becoming VERY costly as well as the damage to the car. I cannot afford to keep paying deductibles for damaged property, losing money that is stolen, or risking the lives of my family all because it isn't the fault of the landlord. Does this make sense? All of this has happened in less than 2 months. There has got to be some sort of habitability and security of the tenant that comes into play?

[ScottGem]

If you were in an apartment complex where the landlord failed to provide reasonable security, you might have a case. But a private home, no. Not legally. So, unless the landlord agress to let you out, he can hold you to the terms of the lease.

[Fr_Chuck]

The landlord is willing to do much more than they are required. No there is no legal grounds for breaking a lease. I am sorry but first crime can happen anywhere, but you are the one that is suppose to check crime status of area before moving. Also a "hit and run" can happen anywhere, and has little to do with crime, although is a pain