Should the landlord reinburse me hotel expense for fumigating the apartment I'm renting?

Question

I'm renting an apartment. It is basically a 2 story house split 3 ways. I just got a letter that they want to fumigate the entire house next month and I need to be gone for 2 nights while they do this.

I have numerous pets and this is a big hassle. They came up with this calculation, and based on that I would be deducted $50 from my rent. That's like NOTHING compared to how much a hotel would cost for 2 nights. Shouldn't they pay for it? It's not my fault they want to do this process over a 2 day period. I've never seen a single ant or termite in this apartment. Not one.

Answer 1

The rent reduction is all you'll see from them, it seems fair...just stay with a relative or friend.  Remember in the long run, it will benefit you.

Answer 2

I would say that they have a legal obligation to allow you to deduct two days of prorated rent from next month's payment for you not getting use of your apartment for those 2 days. Beyond that, I can't see you legally having a claim to reimbursement for any additional expense or for the inconvenience.

Answer 3

I would suggest that everyone splitting this house should band together and seek alittle more fairness.  If you don't leave, he can't do the fumigating.  Once you leave without an agreement, you will get just what he has offered.  good luck.

Answer 4

You need to check your lease or contract to determine if they have the right to do this.  Most states are only required to give you a written notice for such an occurrence about one week before the event.  

If you can't find any details on this in your lease/contract then I would simply call a local attorney's office that specializes in rent/landlord issues and ask them if this is the law.  They may be able to quote you some laws that your landlord will have to abide by.

Otherwise I think them giving you the correct notice (letter, a month early) and a $50 deduction on your next rent is probably all they have to pay.  

Good luck but don't get your hopes up.