Rental law question--tenants rights?

Question

I paid my rent for 2 years on time-never late. I left the house in better condition than when I moved in. The day I moved out, I hired Stanley Steamer to clean my carpets. 3 months later, I am informed by Century 21 that the carpet molded and all the carpet must be replaced because the water was not removed adequately by Stanley Steamer. They kept my deposit and are demanding $1500 more! They said that if I want Stanley Steamer to pay, I need to sue them, but until then I am responsible.....anyone have any advice?

Answer 1

They're correct. One of the reasons I NEVER use Stanley Steemer in my rentals is because of the excess moisture left behind by their equipment. Since the contractor which you hired caused this damage, you ARE responsible. I suggest that you get Stanley Steemer involved IMMEDIATELY. You will probably have to get outside documentation to verify that their process caused the mold issue, and then you will have to sue them in small claims court to become whole.

Answer 2

Check the lease. They probably had to review the apartment when you handed in the keys, and assessed any damages then.
So you could argue that they should have reported any damages to you THEN, and anythign that has happened since then is THEIR fault and not yours (since it wouldn't have molded if you had been informed promptly, and had the carpets dried immediately).

So yes, you're responsible for damages and could sue Stanley Steamer for doing a poor job - but it's also the Century 21's fault for not informing you of the problem in a timely manner. I think if you wanted to take the matter to court you'd have a good case.

Answer 3

I would read the contract with Stanley Steamer. See what they are responsible for. The tenant rights are different in every state.

Answer 4

Read the contract you signed with Stanley Steamer. It should display their liabilities.

Also, renter's rights for every state are available at www.hud.gov.