How can I break my lease with my apartment complex?
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How can I break my lease with my apartment complex?
We were just glad that we met all guidelines needed to move into our apartment. Now 7 months later, out of a 15 month lease, we need out. It is more expensive then we were led to believe, and the conditions are deplorable. I have found another alternative with someone I trusi and It would be easier on the budget. We have black mold on our deck and horrid spider infestations. We have told the management about both, and nothing has been done to help this situation. Everything is leaky, and its never cooler than 90 degrees in here. Its made us sick, and we need out.
Asked on September 4, 2011 under Real Estate Law, Colorado
Answers:
S.L,. Member, California Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 13 years ago | Contributor
In every lease, there is an implied warranty of habitability which means the landlord is required to maintain the premises in a habitable condition by complying with local and state housing codes. When the landlord is informed by the tenant about a problem such as you described with leaks, mold, etc. , the landlord must respond within a reasonable time by making the necessary repairs. If the landlord fails to respond within a reasonable time, the tenant has the following remedies: The tenant can make the repairs and deduct the cost from the rent or the tenant can move out and terminate the obligation to pay rent for the balance of the term of the lease or if the tenant decides to stay on the premises, the tenant can withhold rent and defend against eviction.
The leaks, mold, and the temperature constantly at 90 degrees would be health and safety issues and would constitute breaches of the implied warranty of habitability. It is unlikely that some cobwebs from spiders would constitute a breach of the implied warranty of habitability. As for the place being too expensive, that would not be a valid ground for breaking the lease.
Your argument for a breach of the implied warranty of habitability should focus on the mold, leaks and the temperature constantly at 90 degrees causing your illness.
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