What are the laws on apt.s not telling you the history of your new apt. that could potentially affect you...?

Question

We moved in to our new apt and found out recently that it was flooded out by the apt above us. The guy moved out before his lease was up it was so bad. They didnt even redo the carpet. I found out it was flooded b/c my clothes and towels smelled like mildew and I was breaking out from it. I guess I am having an allergic reaction. I asked neighbors and they were supprised the manager never told us. Which is why the apt went up for grabs so quickly. I wanted to know the laws on them not telling me b/c not everything I own is ruiend and you cant get mildew out unless you dispose of it and I am haveing a reaction. I know when you buy a house if they dont tell you it floods it is againts the law but what about apts?

Answer 1

You probably need to contact an attorney or sue in small claims court for your ACTUAL damages, no emotional distress or anything freaky.
Let the judge decide if the apt won't work with you and let you out of your lease.

Talk to neighbors first, next time, it's your right.

Answer 2

The landlord has no obligation to inform you of previous circumstance in a given rental unit, such as fire, flood or other casualty.

The landlord DOES have an obligation to provide you with a healthy and safe living environment. As a landlord, I have had occasional floods and did not replace carpeting if it was not damaged by the flood. Proper cleaning of premises in such a situation most times will remediate any issues resulting from water damage in the unit above.

Speak to your landlord about the mildew situation. It pays not to mention the previous flooding, since it may not be the cause of the mildew.

Answer 3

you need to get third party statements that the damage caused both to you personally and your stuff is the result of the mold in the carpet, then sue

Answer 4

wow, i would notify management asap and let them know. u need a lawyer. this is above and beyond non disclosure.