Legal Question in Consumer Law in Washington

Is it time to call a lawyer? My heating is not working, the cooker is not working; I called the super and he cannot send anyone till tomorrow, maybe. The super will not tell me the name of the owner of the building. The community washing machines need repairing at least once every 2 months. There are empty beer cans all over the lawn in front of my balcony; cigarette butts on my balcony from the upstairs neighbors.


Asked on 11/21/11, 9:13 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Jonathan Baner Baner & Baner

Here's the thing: what's your point? By that rude statement I mean to ask what are you trying to accomplish? Are you trying to get out of a lease? Under the Washington Residential Landlord Tenant Act a landlord must "commence" work on certain problems within twenty four hours (heating is obviously a big one), but the damages you acquire are, no offense, minimal. If you want to get out of your lease, then it *might* be a way to do so if you are current on rent.

You might want to request your rent be lowered as compensation, or that your landlord be partially responsible for your electric bill if you are using space heaters for a day or two in order to keep the house comfortable.

Hopefully you and the landlord are able to come to some understanding that is bearable to you. Good luck, stay warm, and hope it works out for you.

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Answered on 11/21/11, 9:33 pm


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