What to do if I’m in public housing and my roof is leaking but nothing had been done to fix it?
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What to do if I’m in public housing and my roof is leaking but nothing had been done to fix it?
I called and told the housing people about but they haven’t did anything. It is ruining my baby’s clothes.
Asked on September 23, 2011 under Real Estate Law, Alabama
Answers:
SJZ, Member, New York Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 13 years ago | Contributor
Every lease contains what's known as the "implied warranty of habitability, even if the lease does not say so explicity. The implied warranty of habitabiliy states that the rental premises must be fit for its intended purpose--in this case, for residence. If it's not fit for its purpose, the tenant may be entitled to one or more of the following: to terminate the lease and move out; for monetary compensation for the time the premises is not fit (and for any damage the problem causes to personal belongings); for an order directing the landlord to repair the problem; and sometimes, to repair the problem him/herself and withhold the cost thereof from the rent. So you do have legal remedies. Because it can be tricky to implement these properly, you are advised to seek legal assistance--i.e. to get a lawyer. If you can't afford one, try contacting Legal Services. Good luck.
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