Help with lazy landlord, how do I force him to fix up the place?

Question

Living in a 4-bed duplex in Massachusetts. Our landlord is very dodgy and we need to get the windows fixed. The flies come in because there are no screens. The expensive oil heat will be a problem this winter because some windows don't even close right. Also, the basement is totally flooded whenever we use the washer/dryer that we have to PAY for each time.

What is an inexpensive way to legally nail the guy to the wall and get our place fixed? Thanks!

Answer 1

There should be a department of health and human services in Massachussets (every city and state has one, a close friend of mine lives in alpharetta georgia).

Definately lodge a complaint and take pictures and notes of the dilapitated state of your home.

If you hire a plumber by any chance, or contractor to help you fix the place up, DEFINATELY get copies of the receipt of payment, the service rendered, and use that to build your case against the landlord to the city stating "look, a certified professional said this problem was here and this is how much it costed me." That'll make you look really credible because it is a legit problem solved by a legitimate professional named say, Peter, saying there is a problem (with the windows, drainage plumbing pipes, heating, etc). Only downside is the cost to you in the meantime (can be expensive if you're paying for it all).

Answer 2

You need to file a complaint with your local rental authority and put your landlord on notice.  Keep records and pictures of everything if possible.

If need be have the house inspected by the housing authorities, so they can see first hand.  Also you may want to check if your landlord is even legally allowed to rent the duplex.

good luck

Answer 3

nothing you're complaining about has much to do with health or safety.... doubt you got a leg.... he'll say...

keep the window shut to keep the flies out....

put some sealer around the windows in winter....

take your laundry to the laundromat....

of course, you could send him a letter stating that you're going to have the problems fixed and will then take the cost off the rent.....

or will he go for that?