Are landlords legally required to clean and paint an apartment before the move-in date?

Question

I plan on moving into an apartment but my landlord is refusing to clean the carpets, claiming they were just cleaned six months ago. However, the previous occupants had two cats and I have a baby that will be crawling. Is there a law that states what a landlord is required to do before in between tenants? I am in New York State.

Answer 1

If you want it done you better hire your own team. Do not trust the landlord.

Answer 2

Your landlord should repaint & clean the carpeting for sure. Legally, I don't know if he has to, but I lived in an apartment complex, owned by an association, & after each tenant moved out, the apartments were cleaned from top to bottom, freshly painted, & the carpeting was steam cleaned. That's just a common courtesy to do those things, if nothing more. Carpeting can get pretty bad in six months, especially when pets are allowed. He should be a little more picky, & not allow pets.This may be a sign of things to come with your landlord. Good luck!!!

Answer 3

Yes there is tenant landlord law however, it does not say that the landlord is required to do any cosmetic work only to make sure that the apartment is habitable. If you're not happy with the apartment DO NOT MOVE IN or hand over any money, ask for another apartment or pick another complex.

Answer 4

If he is not willing to do these things and it is in real need of a paint job( it isn't required to paint after each occupant) then you maybe able to get out of the lease. No one cleans they way you would want a place cleaned so I have always had to go in and clean before my stuff was moved in. That way I know for sure it is clean. Carpet cleaners aren't too expensive to rent from Wal-mart or a grocery store. If you decided to take the apt. I would take pics before you do any cleaning so when you move out you can either leave it in better condition or at least as good as condition as you got it.

Answer 5

no they aren't required to clean...but if you still choose to move in, you have got to document by photos with date imbedded in the photo, the condition when you move in...otherwise the landlords can claim they DID clean and any tears or damages were caused by you AFTER you moved in...so make it clear to them that you are documenting with dates so that there is no room for disputes when you choose to move out (if that day ever comes...) it's not fair to you to not clean the carpets, but it should give you a clear view of the attitude of your landlords...choose wisely...you can't undo something once it's done...

Answer 6

No reall law about it. Apartment should be reasonably clean when you move in. You might just want to ask if you can come over a couple of days early, rent a carpet cleaner and do the job yourself. Best time is before you move your furniture in.

Answer 7

in texas is legally require landlord paint apt every 5 year

Answer 8

No law that I know of. You get the apartment as you saw it when you signed the contract, unless the landlord wrote in otherwise.

Answer 9

The landlord is required to maintain the unit clean and furnished. If the tenant will spend for maintenance, the cost will be deducted from the rent.

Answer 10

you best checke the landlord/tenant laws that pertain to your state. look them up so you can see what your rights are as rent paying tenant. also, you may want to consider looking elsewhere since he's so reluctant. that could be a red flag.

Answer 11

Hi,i use to live in new york and i had a apartment there.That was dirrty and the landlord said it wasnt his job but i think it has to be in a liveable state.i dont think there is any law on that.