landlord tenant law

[aubreysparalegal]

I have a broken gas meter that the landlord is responsible for. I have not paid rent for the last five months because he has not yet repaired it. I would like to know if I am doing the right thing. I do not have hot water or gas to keep warm on.

 

[JETX]

READ your lease. There are probably some clauses showing when you can, and can't, block your rent payments.

Personally, I would feel that you are in the wrong. At the very least, you should have repaired the meter and deducted that cost from your rent (if allowed by your lease and local housing folks).

And, I am betting that you have not put aside that 5 months of unpaid rent, have you?? Would you be able to pay the full arrearage in one lump sum if the landlord repaired the meter tomorrow???

 

[djdj]

I agree a judge would force you to pay back rent immediately or be evicted....

Broken gas meter ...why didnt you call the gas company they would have fixed it and billed the landlord....

My advice, pack your backs and get out of dodge FAST......or else you could be looking at collection agencies calling you soon....

Here in New york, a landlord cannot get a money judgement from you if you are not served with court papers, he can only get posession of the apartment.

so we advise to move and leave no fowarding address.

If they do find you and serve you then you have a chance in court to defend yourself, but have a couple of months rent available in case the judge says you owe it.