Landlord Question:Problem with Bathroom?

For the last week or so we've noticed there is a brown liquid coming up from the linoleum in the bathroom. I assume its because of the half assed caulking job they did around the bathrub and toilet, since the floor is rising around both of them. its rolled linoleum,not tiles. it really sucks because when we walk into the bathroom and step where its coming out, we get wet feet or socks with stains on them

i just told my landlord about it and am waiting for a response.

since water is getting under the linoleum, im assuming that they will have to replace the floor.its also probably ruining the wood under the linoleum and possibly causing mold to grow. i have a feeling they are going to tell me they cant afford to do it,that we can do it, but they wont reimburse us for it.

Just wondering what i should say/do when she tries to get out of fixing this.

2012-04-10T11:09:42Z

i let her know through an email about the problem.

i am 7 month pregnant with a 3 yr old daughter so if there is mold, i am worried it could cause us both health problems.

2012-04-10T11:11:40Z

we also dont have the money to make the repairs ourselves, as we are trying to prepare for a baby.

i have a huge feeling if we did ask to do it ourselves then take it out of the rent she would say no.

Ring0Rosie2012-04-10T11:02:36Z

Favorite Answer

My first suggestion is to protect yourself by not telling the landlord verbally about these issues- this is the type of information you need to send in writing (preferrably a letter, not text messages).

Be there when the repair is done so you can see the state of the floor boards.

If it's bad, ask for a replacement. They should fix it right to prevent bigger problems later on. Explain the additional cost and the potential for health problems related to mold. If it is very bad, you should take pictures to use in court in case you feel the repair isn't up to code or causes health risks and you need to get out of the lease.

If theydon't fix it right, you have no obligation to pay for it yourself. I would just deal with the bad repair and then do not renew your lease and move out. After all, they own the property and it's their problem, not yours.

?2012-04-10T10:58:54Z

First your request for repairs MUST be in writing and sent certified mail
The floor must be torn up down to studs and the origin of the leak determined.
Then repair is made to pipes, new plywood then sealed and finally the finished floor.
If landlord refuses to make repairs then you contact the local Building Inspector and file a complaint.
Do NOT attempt the repair yourself

Anonymous2012-04-10T10:59:32Z

This could become a valid reason for you to be able to break your lease without penalty. Check the laws for your state to see what sort of notice and timeframe you have to give a landlord for repairs like this, so you don't get yourself in trouble by doing it wrong.

?2012-04-10T11:02:24Z

If there is mold and a leak they are required to fix that. Have you asked them if you could get it done and deduct that from your rent? You are not liable for those costs.

Corinne2012-04-10T10:59:00Z

Well, she may not...if you are this worried about your landlords...you should consider getting out of the tenancy at the first opportunity..for now..make sure you photograph everything.