|
“Monique’s” rental situation had turned into a nightmare. The house had a racoon infestation in the attic and major plumbing problems, including a toilet leak that saturated a ceiling and damaged her belongings in the basement below. Finally, the furnace broke. Monique never had full use of the unit. So she withheld rent because of all the repair issues that the landlord refused to address. Eventually she moved out.
The landlord, however, sued Monique for $9,000 for nonpayment of rent and plumbing repairs. That’s when Monique reached out to us for help. At trial, we argued for an abatement – meaning that Monique would get a reduction or refund of rent because the landlord failed to maintain the property in a safe, habitable condition.
The judge not only ruled that Monique owed no damages for the plumbing, but also that she was not liable for any outstanding rent. Plus, the landlord was ordered to return her full security deposit. Justice prevailed for Monique, thanks to our attorney fighting on her behalf at trial. Now Monique has peace of mind, a safe place to live, and a more secure financial outlook.
| 
