Can a landlord deny a tenant access to a basement where the circuit breakers and shut off valves are located?
Question Details:
Today my landlord changed the locks and nailed the door closed to prevent access to basement. My only concern is it a circuit trips or I have a water leak I will not be able to get access to turn off the water. I have notified them about other problems and they do not ever get back in a timely matter, so I may go days without getting the problem resolved. Can legally prevent me from having access to the basement.
Landlord / Tenant Law Answers
The landlord has legal obligations to provide the apartment in habitable condition, including taking appropriate action to provide electricity, heat, and and water. However, they do not have an obligation to give you access to the utility areas where electrical panels, water shut-off valves and the like are located. Therefore, the solution to this issue is not a legal one. In this case you should discuss the matter with the landlord, including the pros and cons of providing access to the utility areas, and attempt to come to some reasonable compromise.
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