How to Handle A Landlord Dispute

If you are a renter and are having issues that remain unresolved with your landlord, you aren't alone! Read on to learn some tips on how to take action when you aren't having your needs met by your landlord

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Internet Connection
• State Website
• OSHA Information

1. 
    
   Are Your Issues Being Ignored?

   Many, many people around the United States are subjected to renting as opposed to purchasing a home or a business. If you have been struggling with some issues such as broken items that remained unrepaired, building or plumbing repairs, or the safety of the building or home that you rent, there is several different things you can do as recourse! Don't give up!

2. 
    
   This Is A Problem That Needs To Be Remedied!

   If you are having substantial problems with the property such as cracked foundations, leaky roofs or plumbing, a bad water heater or furnace, these items are NOT your responsibility to take care of. They are the LANDLORD's responsibility. If you have found that your complaints go unresponded to, or you are feeling ignored, start taking some action. Did you know that you have the right to put your rent money into an escrow account and are not required to pay rent until the items you have mentioned are remedied? Did you know that every state has Landlord/Tenant Guides that landlords must adhere to? If you are questioning why your reported issues are overlooked, check out your state website. Most state websites will have a link so you can print out directions on how to lodge a complaint to your landlord the proper way, and also gives you tips on how to hold your rent money LEGALLY without having to pay until the items are taken care of.

3. 
    
   Check out OSHA!

   Do you need OSHA? OSHA is the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, and they WILL take action for you if you are having problems with safety and health issues at the property you rent. Visit OSHA at www.osha.gov to learn more about dealing with landlord issues and what OSHA can investigate for you!

4. 
    
   Landlord Tenant Guides Available

   Many tenants do not know that they have rights! As a tenant there are laws that can keep you and your protected and catered to. Please don't think that you will be served an eviction notice because you aren't having your needs met. By law, landlords have a standard to uphold and if they aren't you do have the option to voice a written complaint within your city as well. Check out your local city government website to find out if they have directions on how you can report your BAD landlord! Good Luck!

Tips & Warnings

• Keep a record! Make sure you have a record of dates and times you have lodged complaints to your landlord, what issues you want to see addressed and the length of time it takes your landlord to respond!
• Put everything in writing and use a certified mail service!
• These tips show that you have validity in your issues and are responsible as a tenant!
• If you are behind in rent payments, take care of it, otherwise you really don't have legal recouse as you aren't holding to your end of the lease agreement!

[jaicard]

on 10/24/2009 Great information! Thankfully, I have a great landlord but I've had some real slumlords in the past and this is great advice.

[2besure]

on 8/23/2009 Great information for anyone who rents a home or apartment.

[kellieann2000]

on 6/16/2009 Great info on How to Handle A Landlord Dispute.

[jull14]

on 6/9/2009 This information is so important to know and very helpful. I had encountered many problems wiht my landlord for repairs reasons, now he better watch out. thanks for sharing such a wonderful article

[mommyhen42]

on 6/1/2009 being informed is the first part of handling any dispute. thanks for the great info