What Did the Landlord Promise, But Didn't Do?

So you walked the unit and noticed some things after you signed the lease, now what?  Well you call or write the landlord to ask that the issue be addressed.  But what then?  You wait about a week to 10 days.  Then what?  You make a personal visit to the office or you send another letter or make another phone call.  While you wait, take photos.  You my friend, are beginning to build a case against that landlord who claims to be, "Busy...I will get to it." 

You might have overlooked some annoying issues while you walked the suite, it happens.  However, some things, no matter how much you scream and yell, the landlord will do nothing, because he or she knows that some issues are not considered a health risk nor do they put his business at risk.

The following are a list of things that he/she will most likely ignore.  However, if you get these things fixed on your own, save the receipts and take photos.  If he/she doesn't reimburse you (for damages you didn't cause), and should have been done before move in--if you can prove his/her promise, feel free to contact the Better Business Bureau and/or file a case with your local small claims court.

So what about those non-essential issues?  Well if you don't make a big deal about them, the landlord won't address them.

1.  Window or door screen damage such as small holes or bent frame, but window works.
2.  An inoperable appliance like a microwave, but the stove works.
3.  Stain, hole or tear in carpet, but the majority of the carpet is intact.
4.  Cosmetic defects of walls, ceilings, doors, flooring, and cabinets, but they all are okay.
5.  Lightbulbs blown out, but the majority of the place has lighting.
6.  Windows that are hard to open and close, but you can still move them.
7.  Lukewarm water, but still gets warm just not scalding hot.
8.  Toilet hard to flush, but still pushes matter down.
9.  Garbage disposal issues (FYI: try pressing the reset key under the belly of it).
10.  Weird smell, but doesn't linger and poses no health risk such as: a dog or cat smell.

Now major issues usually don't go unnoticed because by law, things like electrical issues and piping problems must be addressed.  Check what rights you have as an apartment or home renter in your state.

Nicholl McGuire

Note:  Please be advised Nicholl is not a lawyer and can't provide legal advice.  She is the owner of this blog and former property manager and leasing consultant.