carpet pet odor in new apartment?

Question

I recently just moved into a new apartment. The landlord had paid to have the carpet cleaned so when we moved in there was the smell of carpet deodorizer and everything seemed fine. A few days later the deodorizer wore off and this heavy smell of dog filled the apartment. I told my landlord and initially they gave me a hard time but ended up having someone come out to re clean it. Well that has done NOTHING. It almost seems that the smell is stronger somehow. 

My question is actually what rights do I have as a tenant? Can I ask to have the carpet replaced or to be put in a different apartment? I can't live with this smell. It's very strong. Can I demand new carpet? I live in Washington state.

Anonymous · Accepted Answer

Pet odor is what's called a material defect. It's not natural or expected in an apartment. It gives you the right to break the lease, however, you have to follow certain rules. 

You must notify the landlord, in writing (certified mail), of the problem. Then, you must give him 'reasonable' time to correct it. If he can't correct the problem, then you have to give him notice that you intend to leave (in writing, certified mail). You must completely vacate the apartment by the date that you give him and return the keys.

GlitterRiver · Answer

It could be that the padding underneath is rotten , sometimes even when they replace the  carpet , they save money and use the same padding , and this is actually gross because you could shampoo forever and keep getting black water , so if the carpet seems to be clean , then this is the problem , just pull up one of the little corners and check the pad , it is simple cause it hammers right back down , then go from there.

ulo_olu · Answer

HEY I have seen this a lot in foreclosed homes. People purposefully do this to ruin the house. It is ruined and usually it cost massive amt of money to get rid of the problem.

The CARPET IS NOT THE ISSUE. The wood flood soaked up the stain and cannot be removed with cleaning agents. It has to be pulled out and replaced.

This is very bad for your health tell the land lord to replace the wood floors and carpets, that or I hope you move out and get your deposit back.

TX Mom · Answer

You have to demand new carpet or break the lease.  You can't live any other way.  The carpet pad is no doubt soaked, and unless that is replaced, the odor will remain.

TX Mom

Bluebee · Answer

I'm not sure about your rights but I do know that once carpet has been soiled by pets, no amount of professional cleaning or steaming will get rid of the smell, and can even make it worse. So it will need to be replaced. I wish you luck!

mighty_power7 · Answer

try squirting some Pet Carpet Cleaner on it before you take it up with your landlord again. Carpet cleaner specially designed for Pets contain enzymes that break down animal urine, feces, etc - which is something that not all regular carpet cleaners do.

hailyn s · Answer

try taking up the carpet and having it replaced. and yes you can demand to have the carpet removed, but not replaced

Anonymous · Answer

haha to above.. and yucky i hate the smell of dogs.. umm well i don't know,. but the apartment is unclean and stufff

Anonymous · Answer

ur apartment is haunted by som dead pet spirit get out

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carpet pet odor in new apartment?

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