Legal Question in Landlord & Tenant Law in Pennsylvania

We found out on Aug 7th from our landlord that our water bill had been high for many months. When we investigated we found our HVAC unit had a leak, the contractor the landlord sent notified us that we couldn't have known because it was inside the unit and only the water bill would reflect the leak. He also notified us of significant mold growth in and around the unit (which is located in our bedroom). We notified the landlord who sent out another contractor. This person could not id the problem and poured bleach on but did not remove the mold. Out of concern for our health (Since late June I had been having severe sinus issues & my partner had also suffered gastrointestinal issues) we completed a mold test. The lab results came back with 4 of the worst types of mold to find in a home. We again notified the landlord that the issue still persisted and that the contractor didn't fix it. They ignored us. We continued to pester them about the issue to no avail.

I made a Doctors appointment and after several tests was informed that the mold is most certainly causing my health issues. I was advised to move immediately. We again notified the landlord (early September) and still didn't hear back. It is now late September and they are just attempting to make repairs. Due to the condition of the home, the lack of urgency, the severity of the health risk, and the unsanitary conditions does this constitute a breach of the PA Warranty of Habitability and can we break the lease?


Asked on 9/26/14, 9:56 am

1 Answer from Attorneys
Glenn Brown Real World Law, P.C.

You need to know what the judge is going to say. Depending on the dollars involved head to landlord tenant court, Philadelphia Municipal Court for answers.

Read more
Answered on 9/26/14, 10:10 am


Related Questions & Answers

More Landlord & Tenants questions and answers in Pennsylvania