Can You Break a Lease Over Termites?
WouterIf your landlord does not act quickly to get rid of pests, you may be able to break your lease. To know whether you can do this, you need to know what your rights are.
First, you need to determine whether your state has a law that makes it a legal obligation to fix termite problems. Some states, including California, New York, Oregon, and Colorado, have laws that make it a requirement for your landlord to keep your rental unit free of pests.
Second, you need to find out if you have renters insurance. This insurance policy can help you cover the costs of termite damage. Depending on your state, your policy may cover rodents, rats, and spiders.
Finally, you need to learn the most efficient way to deal with the problem. Often, the most efficient means of handling a problem is to hire a professional exterminator. However, you can also save thousands of dollars by paying for pest deterrents.
In order to take advantage of this, you need to contact your landlord. A good lease will have a section on pest control. Most also have sections on inspections and hiring an exterminator.
If your lease does not have a pest control section, it is up to you to ensure the house is clean. To do this, you may need to reduce hiding places, store items in a sealed container, or seal cracks in the walls.
If your rental property is infested with termites, you may be in a situation where you have to break your lease. However, it can be a bit difficult to do. You have to demonstrate that the infestation has affected your ability to live in your rental property.
