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Holding Security Hostage?

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NeedUrHelpPlz

Junior Member
What is the name of your state (only U.S. law)? Wisconsin
My Brother unknowingly moved into a house with a bat infestation during the winter. A few months after living there, it became apparent there was a bat problem. He called the LL several times asking for him to get rid of the infestation. The LL gave him moth balls, and told him that it would drive the bats away; however, all they did was make his family slightly ill... Long story short, their daughter was taken to the hospital needing rabies shots. The Health department was called by my brother because the home was unsafe to live in. The LL offered to put my brother up in a new place, and not bill for rent while a bat specialist worked on the house. A month later, the LL, rented out the new place, and told my brother he must move back into the Bat house. My brother checked out the place, Many of the walls, and ceilings were replaced, but there was a horrible mess from construction everywhere, and some of the electrical outlets did not work. My brother says the place is still unlivable. The LL has given him a 45 day eviction notice. A second piece of mail came telling my brother he must sign the LL is not liable for any damages, resulting from by brother staying in his property, or he will not return his Security Deposit. The LL also says the house will be torn down, as it is unlivable.

Thank you for your help
 


JETX

Senior Member
Your brother needs to keep ALL documents involved, from him and to him. He also needs to take pictures of everything. Pretty much prepare his 'evidence' in the likely event that this gets to a court.

He should contact the local housing and code agency (if one) and ask them to inspect the property. If it is as you describe, they will probably either 'red tag' the property or revoke the COO (Certificate of Occupancy), either of which will prevent the landlord from renting the property. Either action will also terminate his lease obligation and force the return of any deposit.
 

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