Renting from slumlord, Ocala, FL (renters, month-to-month, home)

[maggieeld]

We're a family of three and have been renting from a single property owner, not an agency. There have been many repairs that she said were our responsibility such as replacement of lead-based paint, bugs and mice and lawn care. I thought pest was the landlord's responsibility, but she said it was our's. We did not sign a lease, but we only filled out a rental application. Now she's selling the property and says if she sells, we must leave immediately. But she said we must stay until the end of the year's term, although we never signed a lease.
Last month we got a $600 electric bill because her ducts fell down and I asked her if she'd take the damages off the rent, said no. I looked into court records, she has a habit of keeping the security deposits from her renters. We found a new place we'd like to live in. Help?

[Retiredcoach]

Because you do not, and have not signed a lease, you are technically on an unwritten month-to-month lease. You must give a 30 day written notice to leave, as must she. As long as this notice is given (have proof that you have given notice like certified mail) and you may move at your discretion.

As for the security deposit, did you take pictures and/or create a pre-inventory of existing damages prior to moving in? I am not sure about the ductwork damage and your request for reimbursement for the large electrical bill.... the reimbursement is a real long shot unless an ongoing written communication was maintained with the landlord and was ignored. Good luck!

[HawgKlr]

Cut your losses...as far as deposits, I don't know anyone around here that actually returns them...especially when renters are complaining about lead paint (how would you know)? Do NOT disturb the paint, instead paint over it with a good quality latex semi-gloss enamel (Behr) a couple of coats should do it...and stop worrying about it unless you're ingesting it. Utilities are one of Floridas dirty little secrets...ductwork has little to do with your monthly bill...conserving usage does.
If you don't like where you're at - move!
P.S. Landlord selling does not mean you have to leave...thats up to the new owners. My guess is she wants you out because of the complaining and therefore the selling "story".

[floridagirl72]

i am so sorry your going through this! I have been there and it stinks! I would LEAP RUN SNATCH up the new place and leave this misery behind! I know for us we had to take a $800 penalty to move and it broke the bank but the sweet relief of living in a better home was well worth it! Good luck!