As a tenant, you have certain rights under the law. While many landlord and tenant relationships go along smoothly, problems can arise. If you are having trouble with your landlord, you may need to hire a lawyer to resolve the issue. Here are three examples of situations in which you may need a lawyer.
Your landlord is evicting you
One of the main reasons why you may need a landlord tenant lawyer is if your landlord is evicting you and you intend to fight it. Having a lawyer can increase your chances of winning your case. Choose a professional who has experience as a landlord tenant lawyer. The lawyer can help you find creative solutions and effective strategies to fight the eviction.
Landlords must follow the law when evicting tenants. If your landlord is not following the law, such as turning off your utilities or locking you out of your home, hiring a lawyer is your best course of action. They have the skills to fight the eviction.
Your landlord is discriminating against you
Just like employment discrimination, discrimination against a tenant is illegal. If you feel that your landlord is unfairly discriminating you, you can take your landlord to court, just like you could if it was employment discrimination. You should document every instance of discrimination.
You may need to hire a lawyer to help you stop the illegal actions. Show the lawyer your documented examples, and they will take the necessary steps so that you can be compensated for the harm you suffered. This may include suing your landlord in court.
You can also file a complaint with your state agency, or the Department of Housing and Urban Development. If HUD thinks you have a case, you can have a lawyer represent you in court. You can be awarded compensation, and the judge may impose penalties on your landlord.
Your landlord won't do any needed repairs
Your landlord must do certain repairs as part of your lease agreement. This can include items such as repairing the heating system or fixing the stove. The landlord is also responsible for any building repairs, such as fixing a leaky roof. If your landlord refuses to do these repairs for you in a timely manner, then it is time to call in a lawyer.
You may want to hold your rent, or repair and deduct the cost on your own. However, a lawyer can make sure that you go about this the right way. They can also communicate with your landlord on your behalf, and take them to court if needed.