My landlord has been supplying me with contaminated water

[cablsurvivor]

What is the name of your state? MD

I have been renting my current residence for three years now. I have not had any problems with my landlord until now.

I noticed a blue color in my tub a day before yesterday and realized that this was strange for something to show up on the surface of my tub, especially suddenly. However, after walking outside I realized my landlord had hoses coming from a holding tank that supplies my water to my residence. The holding tank is located in a chicken house approximately 100 ft. from my residence. I decided to go over and investigate what was going on.

I discovered that several gallons of Bio Cress 50, a disinfectant for use in cleaning chicken houses. I became concerned as to possible contamination to my water supply and contacted the health department.

They immediately responded and informed me that State law requires any water source supplying a residence must be at least 100 Ft from a chicken house. The health department did not take a water sample, but informed me that someone would be contacting me to get a water sample. In the meantime I was informed not use the water to brush my teeth, drink, or to wash dishes.

It has now been three days. My landlord was very upset that I contacted the health department and was explosive originally. The health department keeps putting me off as to why they have not tested my water yet. I informed My landlord that I intend on leaving if this isn't resolved next week. I have already spent $150.00 of my own money for a water cooler and water. My landlord offers me nothing because he says the water is safe and says I need to give him notice so he can get other renters or I would be in breach of my contract.What should I do?What is the name of your state?

 

[ENASNI]

I need to give him notice so he can get other renters or I would be in breach of my contract.What should I do?

You would need to give notice unless the health department can give you a reason for Constructive Eviction.

The landlord would also have to remedy any situation with the water before getting any other new renters in that case anyway.

So what you should do is wait for the water sample to come back, so get them out there pronto.

 

[Gadfly]

If you have to, hire a private lab.

 

[cablsurvivor]

Maryland, The health department has informed him that he must drill another well at least 100 ' from my residence, and it must be approved by the health department. He has filed for a permit. However, he knowingly hooked us up to a well and supplied us with water illegally for three years, which seems to me should be grounds enough for me to leave without giving 30 days notice. Minus any expenses incurred from not having access to drinking water .

 

[FarmerJ]

You can take your chances in court but I wouldnt go there if I were you . For now you need to get your health dept to give you a letter showing that the water isnt fit for human consumption ( condemnation of the well) to prove your complaint to a court . NOW pay attention , next place you live in look at any outside faucet that is hooked to the plumbing and see if there is a back flow preventer on it. If you dont know what to look for go to your nearest hardware store and ask them to show you one. Back flow preventers stop water from backing up into the system from any outside things like holding tanks being filled from the hose bib. As far as your units water source meeting code or not your again going to have to get written proof to take with you into court if it comes down to that. OTHERWISE plan on losing to your LL when your taken to court for a breached lease.