Here's a brief run down: I was living with my bf and going to college. Basically, he was supporting me while I go to school. To make a long story short. He became very sick, became hospitalized and lost his job.
I had to move out suddenly and support myself. I did so very hastily and ended up in a house that wasn't my usual standard of living but given the pressure of school and finding a job, there was no time to keep looking around.
The main tenant gave me a key and didn't want me to sign an application or anything. I thought that was odd but proceeded anyways. I have receipts for my deposit and monthly rent. However, I have no signed agreement for living here.
Here's the problem: Ever since, I've lived here. I've noticed this house is literally falling apart. The electrical goes out regularly and you have to constantly go to the garage to reset the breakers. The kitchen tiles are cracked to the cement. There are holes and yellow spots in the ceiling,
2007-12-23 09:33:47 · 5 answers · asked by Kami 4 in Business & Finance ➔ Renting & Real Estate
I could go on and on about a gaping hole in the ground where a vent cage used to be.
I know I should ask for repairs but I've come to discover by the main tenant that this place will be demolished. The landlord sold it to a developer. However, I don't think it was fair for him to rent this place in these conditions.
Opinions please?
2007-12-23 09:35:18 · update #1
The only other option is I will send the NY Health Dept. in there when I leave.
2007-12-23 09:43:32 · update #2
OK, two things. First, you are technically a squatter not a renter. You may be paying the former owner for living there but he is just that, the former owner (by your explanation above). You will be able to live there until the developer realizes you are in there and files for eviction.
second, if this guy/gal really does not own the place anymore because they sold it to a developer then you have no legal reason to pay him/her rent. Now, if you stop paying then he will have no LEGAL recourse for getting you out. I say no legal recourse because if this crazy world who knows what he/she will decide to do to get you out.
As a personal note I would look for a new place to live that is on the up-and-up. this is a situation that can only end badly.
Good Luck!
2007-12-23 11:50:45 · answer #1 · answered by Patrick 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
You may not have any recourse , since you did not sign a rental agreement .
Check your States Tenant rights , i believe that is what they are called. Or contact your local county,s free legal advice , they can point you in the right legal direction .
Note you may have to go Downtown and all this does take some time .
Or you could chalk it up to lesson learned .
And move out , you may loose your deposit however .
It is a shame but People will definitely take advantage of anyone if given half a chance .
2007-12-23 09:49:28 · answer #2 · answered by bigfred1954 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Frankly, the situation you describe doesn't mean the property is below code. Electrical isn't necessarily below code if the breakers trip. You may be overloading individual circuits.
Cracked kitchen tiles means the floor is worn out. It's not a code violation either. A few holes in the ceiling and 'yellow spots' doesn't indicate code violations either.
Bluntly, you have no basis for a lawsuit. If you don't like the premises, you simply give thirty days notice and then move out.
2007-12-23 13:22:59 · answer #3 · answered by acermill 7 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Since you agreed to rent in those conditions you can not sue. This did not happen while you were living there, but it was in this condition when took residency. Even having a contract would not help you, as you opted to live there in the first place.
2007-12-23 12:38:23 · answer #4 · answered by Landlord 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
you can't sue for anything. you don't have a contract.
2007-12-23 09:42:11 · answer #5 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋