What are my rights if I have a lease for a condo and have withheld rent due to severe water damage and many other safety issues?

What are my rights if I have a lease for a condo and have withheld rent due to severe water damage and many other safety issues?

I live in a condo I lease and over a year ago my condo suffered severe water damage from the attic all the way to the first floor. Damaging interior walls, ceilings, carpets and even subfloors. Landlord was notified immediately. my condo being nearly uninhabitable and he took no action. I then noticed black growth on the 2×4 wood inside the interior wall. Sent pics to the landlord who replied its impossible for that to be mold. My landlord has since changed hands and still not addressing the problems. I have since withheld rent and received a notice to quit. What do I do now?

Asked on February 16, 2012 under Real Estate Law, Massachusetts

Answers:

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