Can a landlord charge the renter for home repairs due to termite damage?

Question

We just moved out of an old wood framed house that we were renting because the floors were falling in and the lease states that the landlord would be responsible for repair and maintaince of the home. We informed him almost 10 months ago that the floors were weak and rotting but he didnt do anything about it which is why we decided to move out. After we left we recieved a notice that we were being billed for over $6800.00 for the cost of an exteminator and labor and supplies to replace the floor. We were in the house for a total of 14 months. Can the landlord hold us responsible for termite damage and the cost of repair?

Answer 1

no, unless it was your fault which is doubtful since termites attack rotting wood

Answer 2

If the landlord does not listen to your reasonable request then you will have to seek a lawyer to fight this $6800 bill for repairs of termite infestation.

Maybe the small claims court could be checked into to see what the limit would be in your area.

Good luck.  I would not pay for this bill either but you never know what

the judge will say when it is all said IT done.  You should fight rather then ignore this notice as it could go against your credit and the landlord could cause other legal problems down the road.

Answer 3

HAHAHAHAH no termite damage is his problem.  He should have had the house exterminated long before you moved in and he should have had the exterminator there on an annual basis to keep termites from invading the house.  That is his problem.  Call him and tell him that you have no intentions of paying the bill for his termite problem and that you are suing him for living there with termites and that you want your rent money back.  Take him to court, he is a slum lord.

Answer 4

If you voluntarily pay it or they sue and you fail to answer, yes.

If you stand up for yourself, possibly with the help of an attorney, no.  

Answer 5

no get a good laywer he needs to pay deposit back also small claims court will do it.

Answer 6

the house was suppose to be inspected before you could have moved in.so no, that bill is on the land lord

Answer 7

No. Get a lawyer and sue him.

Answer 8

LOL...nope.

But u will have to prove that it was damage caused by termites and not U.

Answer 9

Not really.  Did you document the times you spoke to him about it? Or take pictures?  If so, these things can help you in court.  But he cannot hold you responsible for the damage caused by termites.  He claimed it on his insurance, I'm sure.  

Answer 10

Not unless you are termites.  

Note:  The above is a general discussion or statement of the law about which you inquired.  Local laws or your particular situation may change the general rule. For a definitive answer to your particular question you should consult legal counsel.

Answer 11

Only in their dreams.

Answer 12

No. Your contract surely does not state this and even if somehow it did, a judge would throw it out.

Astrobuf

Answer 13

Don't pay the bill. It's his house. He can take you to court for damages if he wants to. But not likely. He will loose a court case for termite damage. Make sure that you get your deposit back or take him to small claims for providing unsafe living conditions for your family, thus forcing you to move. You could also sue him for moving expenses.