Legal Question in Landlord & Tenant Law in Pennsylvania

Tenant rights

My landlord has rented a house to my boyfriend and two of his roommates for three years. I just moved in April, and we signed a new lease May. There are multiple problems within the house, i.e. a circuit that is no longer in working order, broken tile in the bathroom, and items belonging to the landlord that take up half of the basement. We have spoken with the landlord multiple times about having these items fixed/items removed from basement and nothing has happened. What should be our next step? Can we legally remove any items he has left in the basement without repercussion? Also, if we were to paint, as the house has not been painted for multiple years, are we able to deduct that money from rent owed?


Asked on 11/10/08, 4:06 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
John Davidson Law Office of John A. Davidson

Re: Tenant rights

First rule of landlord tenant cases is DOCUMENT. A phone call can't be brought into court to prove anything. Letters, Email, text messages can.

So step one is to write a letter detailing the problems you want fixed. Also the items you want removed. In addition to your demands you can include your offer to do the painting. Then set a reasonable time for him to reply. If he doesn't then its time for a second letter.

If you have any questions feel free to contact me. The initial consultation is free.

{John}

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Answered on 11/10/08, 4:45 pm


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