Landlord Question and Answer Forum

My property had a 2ft flood in the basement(April) and we had to have some work done to remove the mold/replace drywall and recarpet and revinyl the rooms. But before that, we were waiting on the insurance claims adjuster to see if insurance would cover anything before starting work. My tenant (although we gave her 2 month free rent April/May) decided that because we entered June and the work wasn't completed, to withhold her rent until all the work was complete. We verbally agreed. Unfortunately it took a month to complete. We just finished the work last week and she is now stating that she was prorating the rent through last week instead of withholding until completion. I know that she does not call the shots, but what are my options at this point?

Hello--You said you verbally agreed to the witholding. Nothing in writing at all? I am afraid upon initially reading this that she may have the right to do this, but I will investigate further and try to get a better answer or see if any landlords I know have ever experienced this.

Posted by James P, PA on Sunday, July 15, 2007

I don;t see much chance of changing the situation and getting this to go your way, Jaime. In the absence of a written agreement, there just is not much chance.

Posted by Kathleen M, PA on Wednesday, July 18, 2007