How to handle a BAD LANDLORD????

[dvlpr]

Originally Posted by ocean2026

You can look up statutes on the links section of aransasbar.org - that's our local bar association.

This is not my area of law but you should protect yourself by sending certified letters ( and keeping a copy) with your requests. I believe after that you could have gotten someone else to fix the water issue and sent the landlord the bill which you deduct from your rent.

Documentation is crucial -eventually you can go to your jp court and nail him.

This is exactly right - document everything, and lawyer up. Good luck - sorry to hear about your trouble.

[ShaneSA]

Reporting the issue to code compliance and the TV stations, etc. will only cause you the headaches. Like CPS will shut off the gas and not turn it back on until you or the Ll provide proff of repair. Also the LL may well retaliate.
In any case, get the water heater repaired and file for damages and costs in the JP court. It's better to be safe and fight for your rights. Any communication with the LL needs to be in writing with a certified receipt as proof that you have notified him of the needed repair. NO MORE TELEPHONE CALLS. Work him like he is working you.JP court is not expensive and you do not need a lawyer. Unless you would feel better wiht an attorney. read the statutes and follow the directions. It's a bit of work, but can be done.
I'm a LL and know how frustrating it could be to have to deal with a malfunction. I've had problems with appliances going bad, adn also having problems replacing them. I also always try to keep in communication with the tenant when a problem will not go away. this guy makes life difficult for those of us who try to be fair and get things repaired when needed.
Take him to JP court. Maybe this time he will get his due process.