What are the landlord’s obligations regarding rats in the attic of my rental house?
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What are the landlord’s obligations regarding rats in the attic of my rental house?
I recently moved into a rent house in an upscale neighborhood. The house appeared to be in good shape when I moved in but quickly thereafter, we heard noises in the attic. I looked into it and quickly found evidence of pretty heavy rodent activity. When I asked my landlord about it, she said I was responsible for pest control per my lease. I was under the impression that pest control was bug related but they insist that it covers rodents as well. I have re-approached them with the issue and provided evidence of the problem. Should they be responsible for removing the rodents?
Asked on February 15, 2012 under Real Estate Law, Texas
Answers:
FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 12 years ago | Contributor
To determine who is contractually responsible for the removal of the rodent infestation in the unti you occupy, I would carefully read the presumed written lease that you have. If the lease states that the tenant is responsible for the removal of the vermin, then it is your obligation.
If the presumed written lease states that it is the landlord's duty or is silent as to this issue, then the landlord is obligated to pay for the removal.
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