Can You Break a Lease Because of Fleas?
WouterIn most cases, landlords cannot break a lease because of fleas, but they can make their tenants pay for the treatment. If your rental apartment has fleas, the first step is to contact the landlord and document the infestation. If the contract was signed recently, the landlord should provide flea treatment. If the landlord has not provided treatment, you must check for other infestations and document them.
It’s also important to note that the landlord may not be responsible for the infestation. In some states, you may be able to break a lease, but in some cases, you must give the landlord a reasonable amount of time to fix the problem. In these situations, it is better to seek help from a tenant advocacy group, which can guide you through the complex steps involved. The group will be able to assist you with a follow-up plan and affordable legal representation.
You should also note that while landlords will prefer to receive advance notice of a lease break, they will also often waive any penalties that may apply for early termination. It’s always a good idea to seek advice from an attorney or a landlord before breaking a lease.
A roach infestation can also be a good reason to break a lease. Cockroaches are hard to control, especially in multi-unit buildings. Furthermore, they can be spread from apartment to apartment, even if they’re in the same building. If the problem persists, it can be grounds for early termination.
