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Several key factors come into play when looking for a place to rent. Among them are the place itself and how it accommodates your lifestyle, the monthly payment, and the landlord you’ll be dealing with. 

If you’re lucky, you’ll have a landlord who is understanding about your needs and would actually put in the effort to make life easy for you. But of course, life isn’t always perfect like that. 

These tenants would know, and they are rightly shaming the horrible landlords who made renting a nightmarish experience for them. If you’ve been in a similar situation, this list likely resonates with you.

#1

My Landlord Is Telling Me I Left My Apartment “Dirty” And Is Planning To Withhold Some Of My Deposit. These Are Pics I Took Right Before I Left

Empty apartment with bare floors and bathroom showing poor landlord maintenance, typical landlord horror for renters.

Am I delusional, or is my landlord?

Distinct_Morning_607 Report

Upstaged75
Community Member
2 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Landlord is delusional. Take them to small claims court.

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    #2

    My Landlord Gave Me My 30-Day Notice

    Two elderly people peering aggressively through a window, illustrating horrible landlord behavior in renter disputes.

    My landlord was caught creeping without my consent or knowledge and when I confronted her about it she gave me a 30d notice to move out. How can I legally be the most ANNOYING tenant ever in the next 28 days?

    zia_ohlala Report

    Upstaged75
    Community Member
    2 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    WTF??? I have the most amazing landlords. They're an older couple and they're so sweet. The only time they've been in my place is when the heat pump broke in February and it was freezing outside - they brought me space heaters because the were worried about me. (Little did they know that I'm always hot and was fine) They had it replaced for me by the next day. I'm seriously going to live here until I die. 😂

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    #3

    Good Job

    Close-up of a broken brass door handle held in a hand, showing a landlord-renter dispute over repairs.

    PhilipAllison Report

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    A 2024 survey by Lending Tree revealed that 58% of renters claimed to have disliked their landlords. The most common reasons vary between maintenance issues, which made up 68% of respondents. 53% said there were communication issues, while 42% blamed the bad blood on the lack of respect or professionalism. 

    The survey further revealed that 31% of renters claimed that their landlords entered their home without permission, while 21% were involved in legal disputes.

    #4

    I’ve Been Trying To Figure Out How To Turn On This Vent In My Bathroom. Turns Out It’s Fake. It’s Just A Vent Glued To The Ceiling

    Close-up of a dirty, damaged vent showcasing poor maintenance by landlords renters want to run away from.

    CynderMizuki Report

    Glen Ellyn
    Community Member
    Premium
    2 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Yuk! Aren't there building codes there?

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    #5

    Landlord Said Bay 4 Is My Designated Parking Spot

    Parking space with a damaged pole leaning precariously, illustrating poor landlord maintenance in renter properties.

    reddit.com Report

    #6

    Landlord Kicked In My Door When I Was Out Of Town

    Door blocked with mismatched wooden planks in a rental property, highlighting a landlord's poor maintenance and care.

    Moved my stuff into my sublease and then had to go out of town and came back to find out that the landlord had kicked in my front door, not notified me about it, and left it completely unlocked with all my stuff in the room. I’m at a loss.

    sammagz Report

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    Landlords have the right to evict a tenant, provided that they do so within reason. However, 68% of survey respondents claimed they were unjustly evicted. While 30% say it was because they failed to pay their rent on time, 18% claimed it was due to discrimination. 

    Speaking of discrimination, 33% of respondents say they experienced it while applying to rent a property. 11% said it was based on race, and 8% said it was because of their age. The survey also showed that it is more likely to happen to a man.

    #7

    My Landlord Said The New Dryer Is "A Little Small" But Manageable

    Small washing machine placed next to a larger washer in a rental unit showing landlord neglect and tenant frustration.

    drspits Report

    Robert T
    Community Member
    2 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Did they put it through a boil wash and it shrank?

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    #8

    That's A Good Way To Disappear

    Tweet about a landlord sneaking into an apartment to steal cleaning supplies, illustrating horrible landlord behavior.

    alyssaknix Report

    Sabrina
    Community Member
    2 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    That is illegal to do; if the landlady said no chemicals, she should put in the contract and get them to sign.

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    #9

    Sludge? No One Else Complained

    Hand holding a clogged tap filter covered with thick brown sludge showing landlord negligence in rental property.

    samsutliff Report

    Ozymandias73
    Community Member
    2 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Oh hell no! Tell the EPA or somebody about this and MOVE OUT!

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    As tenants, it’s important to know what your landlords can and cannot do. Regarding the latter, raising rent without justification is not allowed. According to Investopedia, an increase is only warranted for three instances: 

    1. A new tenant was added to the household
    2. The addition of a pet
    3. A significant remodeling of the property
    #10

    I'm Sitting At A 24-Hour Diner, Unsure If I Should Go Home, Or Call The Cops, Or What

    Text messages showing a landlord invading privacy and making renters uncomfortable, highlighting horrible landlord behavior.

    If I'm literally overreacting here. I escaped an abusive relationship 2 months ago, left with basically nothing except a little bit of savings, no job, nada. I luckily (at the time) found this place online. I've been a loner since my relationship; he basically destroyed my self-esteem, body, and mind. I no longer have any friends, the few I did never reply to my texts anymore. I am literally starting from zero again. The point is, I found this spot online, met the landlord, who also lives in the house, and we clicked. He let me rent it for cheap, while I found a job, which I still haven't secured yet, hence my hesitance to leave.. but this is freaking me out. He's been subtly hinting that he likes me, etc... always knocking on my door, or letting himself in and jumping into bed with me, complaining about his day.. This guy is 60ish years old, I just assumed he's lonely and bored, and again, I was super appreciative to be able to live here for so cheap. This all went down yesterday. I drank the tea because, honestly, he'd made me tea like 30 times before. I didn't think anything of it, because I'm an idiot. I literally slept for like 13 hours...and woke up to these texts. I politely excused myself from the house and have been walking around the town and hanging out at this diner for the entire day, trying to mentally figure out how to proceed. I feel sick. Physically. I've vomited three times already. I didn't feel sick before bed. My legs hurt, my chest hurts, and I have some bruising on my arms that I didn't notice until today. Am I overreacting by thinking he did something? It feels like everything is pointing to yes. I'm afraid to report it, since the cops barely helped last time and basically judged me for coming to them too late after years of issues with my partner... I'm scared and confused.

    Strong_Use3048 Report

    Upstaged75
    Community Member
    2 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Go to the cops! Sounds like he roofied you! 🤬

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    #11

    Landlord Said I Left The Apartment Nasty And Never Cleaned (Texas)

    Empty apartment rooms with outdated appliances and bare closets showing landlord neglect in renter experiences.

    It's a 1-bedroom. Lived there 3 years, he did a walk-in with me, complained about nothing.im fine with the 250 cleaning, but aft a sec without me he said I damaged the place and when I said I would sue for the extra taken, said he went back & now says if i do, will charge 1500 for messed up counter and few nail holes from pics.

    ineedapasswrd Report

    Upstaged75
    Community Member
    2 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Good thing you have pics. Small claims court.

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    #12

    My Landlord Wanted Me To Lie To The County

    Text message showing a renter confronting a landlord over a $500 rent claim discrepancy with the county.

    I live in New York State. I just signed a one-year lease in November. When I first toured the apartment in October, I told the landlord that I’d be receiving assistance from the county to go towards rent. She asked how much and said she’d prefer the remaining amount that I’d pay be in cash.

    I had to submit a landlord statement, but when my landlord sent it back to me, she reported that I pay $500 a month in rent. My lease states rent is $950 a month, and that’s what I’ve paid for November and December. When I first told her I needed a landlord statement, she mentioned wanting to report $500, and I told her I didn’t know how the process worked, but that I do need assistance from the county and don’t want to jeopardize the amount I could receive. I submitted the statement and a copy of my lease to the county office and called to make them aware of the discrepancy.

    Almost immediately, my landlord reached out. I’m anxious, worrying about my landlord now being retaliatory towards me about this. I don’t understand her motive for wanting to underreport, and I just didn’t want to get in trouble with the county, and I could really use all the assistance I can get right now.

    icedlemonloaf Report

    Sabrina
    Community Member
    2 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I think the landlord wants the country to think she collects $500, so her tax will be lower.

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    Landlords are also required to know the Fair Housing Act of 1968. In a nutshell, it prohibits anyone from discriminating against people based on their race, religion, gender, national origin, familial status, or disability. 

    According to the American Apartment Owners Association (AAOA), landlords can only screen tenants based on legal rental screening reports such as credit checks, rental history, background checks, and proof of income.

    #13

    My Landlord Used My Bathroom Without Me Being Home

    Screenshot of a landlord texting a tenant about apartment access, rent deals, and maintenance requests causing renter frustration.

    I came home to find him in the bathroom. Good thing I didn’t go in, he yelled out to not come in. His reasoning was that he had full access to the apartment at all times. He told me he’d slash rent by 50% to “keep quiet”.

    themindrazor Report

    #14

    Landlord Had The Front Door Replaced A Month Ago And "Almost" Finished The Job

    Door with a missing lock, showing a hole above the doorknob, illustrating poor landlord maintenance in rental property.

    screamingcolor89 Report

    #15

    My Landlord’s Response When Asked About A Potential Black Mold Issue

    Text message exchange showing a landlord refusing to address black mold issues, reflecting horrible landlord behavior.

    I’ve had issues with my landlord before. There was an instance where I have asked them to put in air filters in the vents because dust and lint was getting into our rooms, my room was “hazy” and I’m finding “black dust in my tissues”. I was told “to check for COVID” by my landlord.

    bamkats Report

    Maim
    Community Member
    2 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I had a suspicious leak stain in my apartment for months, they looked at it, did nothing, etc. Finally called the board of health in my town (small town, not a major city) and wouldn't you know it? Fixed within a week, the roof problem and everything!

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    The AAOA also clarified that landlords lose their right to enter a tenant’s property once they’ve entered a rental agreement. If there is a valid reason, such as repairs, landlords must give an advanced notice between 12 and 48 hours. 

    The only exception is during an emergency like a gas leak or a fire. However, landlords must still provide a written notice beforehand.

    #16

    The Rock Was Doing All The Work

    Screenshot of a tweet about a landlord problem involving a rock under the sink causing water to gush on the floor.

    carcarrigan Report

    #17

    He Failed To Mind His Business

    Text conversation showing a landlord questioning tenant about a guest while acknowledging rent payment, highlighting landlord-renter issues.

    BridgetNBrina Report

    StrangeOne
    Community Member
    2 months ago (edited) Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    It's none of their business. Some c*****d out caretakers in my last place kept harassing me about my ex coming over a few times an evening to spend time with our daughter, while I worked. (We both had wonky work schedules.) They were demanding he start paying rent and accusing him of living there, even though I paid the full rent every month and having him be there didn't mean higher rent. I think they eventually got fired. So glad when they were gone. No caretaker after bothered us.

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    #18

    Landlords Are Charging Us A "Tenant Benefits Package Fee". No Explanation, No Additional Service Given

    Rental invoice showing high landlord fees and monthly rent balance, highlighting landlord and renter payment issues.

    Apparently, my roommate said it's to "cover maintenance" - you mean the service they're supposed to provide by law anyway?

    hey-its-harp Report

    WindySwede
    Community Member
    2 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    2125 per month..? 😬🤯👎

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    That then begs an important question: how do you spot a horrible landlord during your first meeting to avoid these kinds of headaches? According to real estate agent and investor Jacob Naig, disorganization is the most obvious giveaway. 

    “If a landlord arrives without a lease ready to sign, bumbles through basic utility questions, or offers foggy maintenance records, it’s often a dry run for the future,” he told Bored Panda.

    #19

    Did I Rust This Pipe? My Landlord Claims I Did

    Corroded and broken plumbing pipes under a sink showing landlord neglect causing renters to want to run away.

    My landlord is claiming that this pipe rusting, though, is “user error” and trying to charge me for the repair. I can't see how I'm living in a house for about 2 years and a pipe is rusting, without it being maintained prior to my moving in. I do not use any chemicals in the drain besides soap. Could I possibly be responsible for the damage?

    Adventurous-Web-8438 Report

    Upstaged75
    Community Member
    2 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    No way! Unless you're putting something crazy down the drain.

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    #20

    That Is A Really Random Excuse

    Tenant shares a story about slugs crawling through floor cracks and a landlord blaming the tenant for having a cat.

    offgridteacher Report

    TiNaBoNiNa
    Community Member
    2 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Slugs are attracted to dampness. If there are slugs, there is probably also mold and fungus growing, too.

    #21

    Shared Walls, Shared Appliances

    Tweet showing a tenant sharing how a landlord gave other tenants keys to her apartment to use her fridge.

    jacquelinedole Report

    Some landlords might refuse to put agreements in writing, and this is a major red flag, according to personal injury lawyer Robert Montanez. As he explained, this resistance alone could be an indicator that they may dispute responsibilities later on. 

    Montanez adds that tenants often overlook this warning sign during the initial meeting, particularly if the landlord presents a friendly demeanor or verbally promises quick fixes.

    #22

    What Are These Hooded Statues/Figures My Landlord Left In My Apartment?

    Two ghost-like statues with hooded cloaks, one black and one white, placed on a wooden shelf near a window blind.

    Moving into a new apartment this week. Wtf are these statues my landlord has placed on the fireplace? I’m creeped out and I’m scared to remove them.

    LavenderrSun Report

    #23

    My Landlord Is Selling And Is Asking A Lot Of Us

    Text message from landlord demanding specific long showing times over multiple days, frustrating renters with strict schedules.

    My landlord is selling all of their properties and is moving very fast. I was uncomfortable with pictures, but now they want to do walk walk-through showing while we still fully occupy the house. Is this normal? What can I do to protect my privacy? I don’t want to block the sale, but I don’t want strangers walking through my home either.

    jebusv2 Report

    #24

    When Your Landlord Is Dumb

    Text message exchange showing confusing rent payment demands from a landlord causing frustration for renters.

    How do you handle it? I asked my landlord to text my husband instead of me, maybe 10x, because I was getting very close to responding with what I wanted to say instead of what I should say. We have paid on time or early for the two years we have lived here, not asked for anything, and have been very accommodating to his inability to remember to give 24 hours' notice. Additionally we have been very accommodating to a sale of the entire building. Sharing just because this is a great snapshot of our interactions. Today is Sunday, btw. Also, I haven’t responded to any texts he has sent to this number for a year now.

    hrnigntmare Report

    Communication is an integral part of signing a lease for a place to rent. And according to Noah Albers of debt collection agency Advanced Collection Bureau, Inc., tenants tend to overlook a landlord who provides vague answers, uses a templated lease, or shows unreasonable aggression about security deposits. Some may even try to intimidate you. 

    “It usually means they’re comfortable using intimidation or legal gray areas to control tenants, which becomes a much bigger issue down the road,” said Albers, whose agency specializes in residential rent and move-out balances.

    #25

    Landlord Covered My Windows With Plastic

    Window covered with fogged plastic film, showing a poor landlord fix in a rental property with blocked view.

    I was shocked when I came home from work and saw plastic covering every window in my apartment. I reached out to the property management, and they told me it was for “waterproofing” the building. Asked for a date when it would be removed, and they said they “weren’t sure”. It’s cutting off ventilation, and I’m having to run my AC in 70-degree weather because it’s almost 80 degrees in my apartment with this plastic on. I asked if they would subsidize a portion of my electric bills since I will be needing to run the AC, which they said they would “get back to me about,” but of course, they didn’t. Just wondering what the legality of this is, and if there are any suggestions on how to remove it from my second-story window if it comes to that. I have tried popping out my window screen, but for some reason, it’s very difficult. I’m also currently sick, so I need proper ventilation in my apartment, and it would be nice for my mental health to be able to see out of my windows.

    ResidentCaterpillar Report

    #26

    Landlord Sent Us Bill For Clogged Sewer

    Handwritten note and invoice showing landlord charging $180 for unclogging a sewer, illustrating horrible landlord behavior.

    We live in a row of 4 townhouses in Pennsylvania.
    On 11/8, around 7PM, I went down to our garage and found the floor drain backing up raw sewage. I immediately called the emergency number and within a few minutes, the on-call maintenance called me back. After going back and forth with him for a while, he had a plumbing company call me, but they couldn’t come out until the next morning. I wasn’t pleased with this because there was raw sewage everywhere, on our clothes (washer and dryer are in the garage), etc.

    He also told me this wasn’t the first time this has happened in our row of apartments, the last time it was 2 apartments farther from the main line. After getting there in the morning, the plumbers immediately went to the outside clean out and snaked towards the main line, and said they found a clog around 44ft out. Problem fixed!

    Fast forward 2 weeks, and I get this bill in an email for a clogged sewer (2nd photo). Luckily, I was smart enough to ask the plumbers for a statement with the date and explanation. My question is, how can they expect me to pay for the bill when 1. There are 3 other apartments on the same sewer line, and 2. I just so happened to be the one who called it in, because my neighbors who are closer to the clog weren’t home at the time.

    Am I correct in thinking this is in no way my responsibility, and I should not pay this? I emailed my property manager, but haven’t received a response yet.

    TheHideoutDev Report

    Upstaged75
    Community Member
    2 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Do not pay that. That's the slumlord's responsibility.

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    #27

    Landlord Says This Is An Acceptable Temp Difference

    Digital thermometer showing indoor and outdoor temperature and humidity in a renter's room, highlighting landlord issues.

    I need to know if I have any rights as a tenant in Texas against a landlord out of Jersey. She says this is an acceptable temperature difference in my bedroom. My AC simply can't keep up with the Texas heat, and we even bought a window unit because she refused to acknowledge the fact that the house is constantly 80°. She says 20° less is the parameter. Well, I say you come try to sleep when it's 81°.

    tiredoftheweather Report

    So, how do you spare yourself from the hassles of dealing with a bad landlord? Hiring a realtor would be a first step, according to Ryan Carrigan, founder of tech moving company moveBuddha. 

    “A licensed realtor knows what paperwork is needed to make a lease agreement binding, and they can usually spot any landlord red flags much easier than you can,” he said.

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    #28

    Paid AUD $544 Because Landlord Made An Error

    Person using a wire to unlock a door while showing landlord neglect, one of the horrible landlord moments renters faced.

    Got locked out after the keycard stopped working because the landlord didn’t update the rental period. After contacting the landlord at 6 pm, they asked me to find a locksmith at my own expense for a mistake they had made.

    normanlzx Report

    Mike F
    Community Member
    2 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Wouldn't it be cheaper to kick the door down?

    #29

    Landlord’s “Tree Surgeon” Broke My Rear Windshield With A Throw Bag

    Blue car with broken rear window covered in plastic in a landlord property parking area showing horrible landlord neglect.

    You can see the dead tree in front of the Subaru.
    The tree hasn’t been taken care of for a while, sent two requests for it to be removed (just over a month of waiting). Finally, after the second maintenance request, the landlord’s go-to tree surgeon just came to say, “Yeah, I reported this three years ago, I’ll rope it down”. Ten minutes later, my windshield is gone.
    As for why I didn’t move it before? The car can’t start, and he insisted that we didn’t need to move it - to wait until he actually starts to get it taken down. The head gaskets are blown, the battery is dead, so we started to charge the battery just after he called. Seems as though we should’ve neutral pushed it…

    borjunkice Report

    Mike F
    Community Member
    2 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    If it meant that much to someone they would be a bit proactive.

    #30

    My Landlord Offered Me A “Proposal” After I Asked If The Hotel Employees Would Stop Trashing The Yard (Ca)

    Text message exchange showing a landlord offering a tenant 60 days rent free to vacate amid studio remodeling plans.

    I’ve been renting a studio apartment on a hotel property for five years. My landlord has raised my rent five times, twice in one year, and the other times have been more than 10% of the previous year’s rent. The last time he tried to raise my rent, I told him I wanted a bunch of stuff fixed, like a place to throw away my garbage, smoke detectors, central heat and air, and a full fridge. Some of these things are deemed “unlivable in California. After I asked him to ask the people at the hotel to stop trashing the courtyard, he sent this proposal, which sounds like a soft eviction notice to me. I live with my girlfriend, and have most of the receipts for staying here. We have two kittens, and I don’t know what to do. Apartments are super expensive here, and I don’t know if they would let us bring both kittens. Any advice would be immensely helpful.

    HandofDOOM708 Report

    Littlemiss
    Community Member
    Premium
    2 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Far out that is down right disgusting

    You can also gain valuable insights by talking to your neighbors. As Naig explains, interacting with the people living next to you often reveals a pattern. 

    “When many tenants have the same gripe, the landlord finds it more difficult to dismiss the complaints,” he said, emphasizing the importance of documentation, ideally on paper. 

    #31

    Suspected Landlord Of Stealing My Mail, So I Set Up A Camera

    Surveillance footage shows a person on a porch with an American flag and bike, highlighting landlord and renter conflicts.

    Unfortunately, I didn't get any today. She didn't even check her own mailbox, man... I can't sign up for USPS Informed Delivery because I'm pretty sure she stole the change of address confirmation letter with the code I needed.

    CinnySugar Report

    Nikki Sevven
    Community Member
    2 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    From the photo, it looks like you're in the US. Contact your local postal inspector and report this. Stealing mail is a federal felony.

    #32

    Landlord Said Any Realtor Can Enter At Anytime (Tx)

    Sticky note on smart lock with handwritten landlord warning not to enter without notifying residents in rental property.

    The landlord said that any realtor can enter at anytime to show the house. We will be out at the end of the month, in 3 weeks. The reason we want to be here whenever the house is being shown is that we have dogs. Both dogs bark, but one will bite if a stranger comes into the house. Please tell me that there is a misunderstanding and that nobody is going to enter our home without warning. I put the note on the lockbox. Any advice on how to go about this situation is appreciated.

    LamarNoDavis Report

    Mike F
    Community Member
    2 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    DANGER: No entry without tenants. Vicious dogs inside.

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    #33

    One Of These Things Is Not Like The Other

    Close-up of a damaged white stair banister showing poor landlord maintenance in a rental property staircase.

    MikMinaj Report

    How you handle an unpleasant situation with a landlord also matters heavily. Albers discourages retaliation or emotional responses, as they can only do more harm than good. 

    “A calm, fact-based approach not only protects your credit, it often wins in the long run,” he said.

    #34

    The Landlord Decided That We Didn't Need A Backyard Anymore

    Small construction vehicle parked on black tarp and gravel near new wooden fence in a yard, showing landlord property changes.

    i_dont_know_you_dude Report

    JuJu
    Community Member
    2 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Is the fence that high or is it a toy?

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    #35

    Landlord Painted A Penny To The Window Ledge

    Close-up of a c*****d windowsill seal showing poor maintenance by landlords in a rental property problem.

    raynsuch Report

    Mike F
    Community Member
    2 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    That's OK, that "window" hasn't been opened since Nixon was president judging by the paint buildup.

    #36

    Landlord Withholding Full Security Deposit (1.8k) Plus Charging Another 1k Over For "Light Marks" On Walls (TN)

    Wall damage and cleaning charges listed, showing landlord's excessive fees renters want to avoid in frustrating rental disputes.

    TrentBladez Report

    Annette Hodge
    Community Member
    2 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    That's called normal wear and tear, which is paid for by the owner. He can't make you pay. Everytime someone moves out, they should paint, have carpets shampooed, everything disinfected, all appliances checked... The only thing that would come out of your security deposit is if you broke something and any repairs have to be done. It's not your responsibility to make the apartment ready for the next tenants. That's why he makes the money

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    #37

    Former Landlord Found A Remaining Balance 3 Years Late

    Email from landlord demanding $53.27 balance with limited payment options, showing landlord behavior renters find horrible.

    Today I received this email from a former landlord’s property management stating I have a past due balance of about $50. It’s an inconsequential amount of money for me now, but my issue is that I moved out at the start of February 2022… So almost 3 years ago. This is the first I’ve heard of any remaining balance. I have no qualms paying a legitimate charge, but if I don’t legally have to, then I’d obviously rather not. I have no plans to rent from them in the future, so if this “burns a bridge”, then so be it.
    I haven’t asked for specific details yet because I’m worried that asking for details will be considered “acknowledging” the debt, which may or may not be legitimate. I’m not sure what the charges could be for - I left the place in IMMACULATE condition since it was my first time renting and I’d heard the horror stories of how nit-picky some landlords can be. They still didn’t return my security deposit, but I was so naive at the time that I thought they were allowed to just keep it. So that’s on me, but I’m over it at this point.
    So my questions are: Does asking for details count as me acknowledging the debt, even if it is not legitimate? If it is legitimate, is there any sort of statute of limitations that would preclude them from legally collecting? Thanks in advance.

    DrWollyNips Report

    Nikki Sevven
    Community Member
    2 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Send this: "You failed to return my security deposit, so you have a remaining balance of $___ that you owe me. If I do not receive this balance within 30 days, I will be filing a motion in housing court."

    View more comments
    #38

    Told Landlord Multiple Times Plugs Keep Sparking And Then This Happened

    Burnt electrical outlet on a wall, showing damage and safety hazard from neglect by landlords in rental properties.

    So my landlord refuses to do anything to fix the electrical issues I have been having. I told him multiple times that the outlets have been sparking and they are loose (meaning no matter what I plug in, they don't stay in all the way). So then, when I was sleeping, I woke up to this. I live in Pennsylvania, so I'm trying to figure out what to do. He's from Greece, not originally from here. He's somewhere in his late 50s. It's a great place, but he either refuses to do anything or just puts it off for months. I was going to most likely put the rent into escrow until the problem is dealt with. But I am very open to any other opinions.

    AnimeExtremist23 Report

    #39

    The Door That Opened Itself

    Tenant shares a landlord horror story about a faulty apartment door and refusal to replace it causing renter distress.

    lizscher Report

    Upstaged75
    Community Member
    2 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Law suits and court are definitely the way to convince slumlords to do things.

    See Also on Bored Panda
    #40

    Landlord Says Hes Not Responsible For The Huge Chunk Of Our Roof That Blew Off In January

    Dirty, c*****d window with damaged screen in a rental property showing poor landlord maintenance issues.

    We lost a panel that makes up about 25% of the roof covering our patio during heavy winds in January. Put a maintenance request in right away, haven't heard anything in months. Yesterday, the landlord canceled the request, saying it's "a greenhouse", so if we want it fixed, we have to fix it ourselves.
    Because the rain always comes with winds, about 60% of the patio is completely soaked every time it rains, and there are no other measures to direct water toward the edge, so it just pools and spreads even further. I've got laundry that can't go in the dryer, and now I can't dry it outside for a third of the year either.

    yourbaconess Report

    Nikki Sevven
    Community Member
    2 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Get a box of contractor's garbage bags. They're much thicker and tougher than regular trash bags. Staple a couple layers to the framework.

    #41

    My Landlords “Solution” To Broken Kitchen Tiles

    Broken blue floor tile with water pooling in the corner, showing poor maintenance by landlords in rental property.

    It’s not even cut properly, and the corners are already coming off…

    Gur3665 Report

    StrangeOne
    Community Member
    2 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I thought that was a swimming pool.

    #42

    Indoor Parking Space Is Poorly Lit For My Space, And I Decided To Add A Bulb To The Empty Socket Above It. This Is The Landlord's Response. It's One LED Bulb

    Text message exchange between landlord and renter about light bulbs in underground parking, highlighting horrible landlord issues.

    MasterOfBunnies Report

    YakFactory
    Community Member
    2 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I'm sure your rent would cover the cost of running one LED globe, and still leave a profit for the landlord. Of course, if you had an accident in that area due to poor lighting, who would be responsible?

    #43

    What Should I Expect? South FL 2 Months Left On Lease

    Text message complaining about landlord's failure to fix air conditioning despite multiple chances from renters.

    AlfalfaMaterial1141 Report

    Bur*
    Community Member
    2 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    There's nothing wrong with the air conditioning. The house is poorly insulated and the AC is doing the best it can to keep up with it.

    View more comments
    #44

    That's A Solution

    Tweet about raccoon infestations in rental walls and ceiling showing landlords ignoring tenant complaints before action was taken.

    SusanRBruce Report

    #45

    Understood The Assignment

    Tweet sharing a landlord’s denial of wasp infestation despite clear evidence, highlighting horrible landlord behavior.

    _misrabella Report

    Mike F
    Community Member
    2 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    That should do it! 😂😂

    #46

    (NY) I Believe My Landlord Is Evicting Me In Retaliation

    Text message exchange showing renters confronting a landlord about unauthorized apartment entry and lease agreement violations.

    I noticed that someone was in my apartment last weekend while I wasn’t home. I went into my basement and saw something’s slightly moved and it freaked me out. Later that day I was at my dad’s for dinner and mentioned it to him. He knows my landlord. On Tuesday he called my dad and said he needed to access my apartment again and my dad told him to call me as I’m the tenant. He yelled at my dad and hung up on him. He then called me and yelled at me while I was at work and hung up on me. He had never spoken to me about entering the apartment so I was caught off guard. These are all the texts between us. He came by to collect rent today for the other tenants. I saw his car and went out to greet him. He saw me, I said good morning, and he immediately said goodbye to the other tenant, got in his car, and drove away without a word to me. I tried to smooth things over the best I could but I had to resort to saying what he’s doing is illegal. Now he wants to evict me immediately. What can I do?

    THROWRA-HelpNY Report

    #47

    Am I Overreacting?

    Text messages showing renter complaining about overflowing sink and landlord refusing prompt repairs in a horrible landlord situation

    So two days ago, I was working upstairs in my apartment and noticed a rancid smell. Thinking it was the garbage, I came downstairs and saw my sink overflowing with what is obviously blackwater, all over my counter, the floor, into my cabinets, etc. I call my landlord in a hurry, and in about 30 minutes, our regular repair guy comes, walks in, and goes "holy s**t". The odor was so strong that my two neighbors, who were affected, had to stand outside to breathe. They eventually fixed the pipes, the water drained, and the repairmen waved goodbye and left us. I had to reach out to my landlord several times, awaiting a response to do something about this, only for him to say that he'll give me $150 to pay for a cleaning lady. I feel like this is going to require a much bigger corrective action. There is literally water all over my kitchen, my dishes, and my appliances. Am I overreacting? Should I continue to press him?

    stoppingtoast Report

    Upstaged75
    Community Member
    2 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    These are freaking crazy. I guess I've been super lucky with landlords, thank goodness!

    View more comments
    #48

    Being A Renter Sucks

    Email from landlord notifying tenants of no lease renewals due to rent cap, showing a landlord being horrible to renters.

    Landlords… Even the good ones are bad. I texted the # provided and was told their prices would be “out of reach”.

    _VHStapes_ Report

    Mike F
    Community Member
    2 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    That whole "market rate" business is absurd.

    #49

    I Got Charged A $35 Process Server Fee For My Landlord Having Someone Tape A Notice To My Door Telling Me My Rent Is Going Up $100

    Notification of a $35 process server fee added to an online portal, relevant to landlords and renters issues.

    This kind of stuff has to stop. My landlords are lawyers, I've put in 3 separate maintenance requests for minor fixes that have gone ignored, open my front door to homeless people sleeping in my stairwell, and somehow my 1-bedroom apartment is now $1145 a month. This is so dumb.

    mooseman077 Report

    Beth H
    Community Member
    Premium
    2 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    You didn’t get served. That would never fly in court.

    See Also on Bored Panda
    #50

    Breaking Lease Couldn’t Have Gone Better?

    Text message exchange showing landlords and renters disputing rent payments and rental license issues.

    If you live in Philly, check on the L&I property history search to see if your landlord has a rental license. If not, keep that in your back pocket and use it as leverage for when you need it.

    More context: we JUST signed our lease for a 3rd year with our landlord when we found a house to buy! When I emailed to break the lease, I mentioned the unsafe conditions like the electrical wiring (ungrounded, likely knob and tube), the previous termite issues, and the gas leaks we had for months when we first moved in until I called PGW.

    He suggested that I call another tenant of his to tour the place, and she told me she’s not planning on moving until February. I was shocked that he would hold the property for that long, as we will be out by the end of September. Well, he wasn’t. He told her that I would continue to pay the rent until February! Hilarious.

    I tried to help out and find a new tenant, but when he asked us to pay rent for our last month, we decided it was better to break it off and offer the deposit as a peace offering.

    Honestly, I expected the conversation to go way worse. This worked so well.

    In other news, SO glad to never have a landlord again!

    I learned a lot about Philly rental laws along the way, so if you have any questions, ask away!

    kristencatparty Report

    #51

    Landlord Suddenly Doubled The Price Of The Laundry Machines. His Solution? Buy Less Ice Cream

    Text from landlord about laundry rules and costs, highlighting how renters want to avoid unfair landlord policies.

    vinylsandjaneausten Report

    Mike F
    Community Member
    2 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Unplug machines, take clothes to laundromat. 😉

    #52

    Brothers Landlords Solution To A Leaking Shower

    Shower with poorly installed tiles and grout, showing bad workmanship by landlords in a rental property.

    When in doubt, caulk it out? And yes, it’s still leaking into the basement.

    Lowkeycanadian4 Report

    YakFactory
    Community Member
    2 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    That's disgusting. It's easy to fix things properly, and feel proud of the accomodation you rent out. For information, I am a landlady, and our property is maintained well, and tenants only have to ask for something and it's done immediately and properly. Tenants are happy, and we can relax knowing we look after them well.

    #53

    All Landlords Are Bastards

    Screenshot of a landlord's cruel tweet demanding extra rent after a tenant's death, highlighting horrible landlord behavior.

    RealMelonLord Report

    Spidercat
    Community Member
    2 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Tell the Landlord to ask the tenant and leave a ouija board for them to 'call' on...

    View more comments
    #54

    Landlord Replaced My Door And I Noticed It Was Creaking

    Hand holding a s***w near a door hinge with visible gaps, showing poor landlord maintenance in a rental property.

    Landlord used screws instead of the correct pin.

    LateRespond1184 Report

    #55

    Front Steps In a Chicago Apartment Look Like This. Landlord Says There’s A Shortage Of People Willing To Work (IL)

    Worn and damaged stairs with a broken step, illustrating landlords so horrible renters wanted to run away.

    The front stairs to my apartment are clearly collapsing in my messy apartment in Chicago. I’ve sent pictures to my landlord and they don’t seem to care at all. The response has been “there’s a shortage of people that want to work” do I have any options?

    TheBlownRanger69 Report

    Upstaged75
    Community Member
    2 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    More like the landlord has a shortage of wanting to pay for it.

    View more comments
    #56

    Suspicious Smells? Totally Fine

    Twitter thread showing renters’ struggles with a landlord over a smoked-in unit and deposit disputes, highlighting horrible landlords.

    AlexKramerBlogs Report

    TiNaBoNiNa
    Community Member
    2 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Lawsuit. Sue for the replacement of unsalvageable property.

    #57

    Landlord Solutions

    Tweet describing a landlord's poor biohazard cleanup after a tenant died, causing unbearable odors in the rental unit.

    MontShannon Report

    Lyone Fein
    Community Member
    2 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Sounds like a health hazard. Get the city officials involved.

    #58

    "The Fridge Worked Fine"

    Tweet about a landlord refusing to communicate with the renter and unfairly charging for a new fridge after move-out.

    shandra_mcjeql Report

    #59

    The Lock On My Friend's Bathroom Door. The Landlord Did The Job

    Close-up of a damaged and poorly maintained door lock showcasing a landlord fail renters want to run away from.

    YourAmishNeighbor Report

    StrangeOne
    Community Member
    2 months ago (edited) Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Looks like the door is c r acked, too. It needs to be replaced.

    See Also on Bored Panda
    #60

    The Way Our Landlords “Fixed” Our Leaky Shower Faucet

    Broken shower handle with exposed wall and mold on tiles, showing poor maintenance by landlords in rental properties.

    waldleise Report

    #61

    Neighbors Landlord Dumped His Loose Construction Trash In My Trashcan

    Trash and broken bathroom fixture parts dumped inside a large green container showing landlord neglect and poor rental conditions.

    It was on the street as the sanitary department just emptied it. Watched him cross the street to empty his construction bucket (pretty sure he saw me too lol). There was a plume of dust as he walked back.

    The real kicker is the house next door is vacant and had empty bins on the street as well! Why empty into mind when I am clearly home?

    DisregardThisOrDont Report

    Mike F
    Community Member
    2 months ago (edited) Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Dump it on their lawn.

    #62

    This Water Pipe… “Not Related To Rats” !!!

    Close-up of damaged white pipe with burn mark in a rental property showing landlords were so horrible renters wanted to run away

    That our landlady insisted was nothing to do with the “mice” in our house. We have rats. We have seen them. We hear them constantly and the “bait” that’s gone down does absolutely nothing despite them eating it constantly.

    Krxft Report

    BookFanatic
    Community Member
    2 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Oh, I had a mouse problem in my first apartment. Leasing office didn't believe me. I took pictures, set out snap traps, etc. Still nothing. So I bagged a dead mouse, brought it over to the office, and dropped it on the manager's desk. Had pest control there within half an hour.

    #63

    Landlord Didn’t Care Much

    Person wearing mask holding a large baby seagull inside a rented home, showcasing landlord and renter issues.

    DeFrenteComMahi Report

    #64

    Landlord Took $4000 Security Deposit And Is Charging On Top Of That

    Security deposit deductions letter showing excessive charges from landlord, causing renters to want to run away.

    I live in PA and just moved out of a house my 3 roommates and I were renting. We’re college students and landlords in the area are known to take advantage of students. The house we were renting was old and a dump. And somehow we were paying over $1000 each for rent. We cleaned the entire house, even hired professional cleaners for the kitchen and did the best we could given how dirty the place was to begin with. This is how much we were charged for “damages.” There are no big damages, only some holes/patches in the walls. The dresser left behind was one that was left for us and we couldn’t remove it. We sent her an email requesting receipts and that we shouldn’t be charged that much for damages. She replied and basically threatened to charge us more. We don’t know what to do at this point and any legal advice would be appreciated!

    Environmental_Try320 Report

    Lyone Fein
    Community Member
    2 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    That $2000 charge for the labor of painting is bogus. It’s a double charge. The $1600 for painting, up above, is basically the exact same thing!

    View more comments
    #65

    Landlord’s “Renovation”

    Worn and rusted cabinet hinges inside a neglected rental property showing poor landlord maintenance.

    hexxidious Report

    #66

    Is This Oven Safe And Acceptable As Stated By Landlord?

    Old oven door handle broken and held up by hand inside a rental kitchen, showcasing landlord neglect and renter frustration.

    nervousmostly Report

    #67

    Landlord vs. Plumbing

    Tweets describing a landlord's terrible behavior involving water heater leaks and tenants dealing with horrible landlords.

    thefaithasaurus Report

    #68

    Lock Broke And Landlord Said Its Super Expensive To Replace But It Literally Just Has A Cheap Normal Lock Inside It

    Rusty and broken lock mechanism with a padlock and keys, showcasing a landlord fail in rental property security.

    Comfortable_Bid5659 Report

    #69

    Can My Landlord Do This?

    Letter from landlord notifying tenants about new utility allocation fees based on bedrooms, showing why some renters wanted to run away.

    Based in California, signed my lease renewal today and then got this on my front door.

    -sad-cat- Report

    See Also on Bored Panda
    #70

    Landlady Isn’t Returning Our Deposit Despite Numerous Pleas. Not Sure How To Proceed With This Situation

    Chat screenshot showing a landlord avoiding returning security deposit and delaying communication with the renter.

    We moved out of the property about a month back and had handed in our notice period a month prior to the date of vacating, as mentioned on the contract. Despite all this, she refuses the return the deposit (a substantial amount of 1.5L). Always had a great relationship with her, but things turned sour the last month from her end for reasons I have no idea about. What do you guys think I should do to get my money back?

    aaron_prmd Report

    Spidercat
    Community Member
    2 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    So glad we have the Tenancy Deposit Protection Scheme in the UK. Deposit gets held by an independent 3rd party organisation and won't be released until all matters are resolved by all parties. Had this a few years ago when a landlady tried to keep £1500 over a small stain in the bathroom. We offered to pay someone to clean it and the 3rd party said that was 'fair and reasonable'. We went round and spent a total of 3mins cleaning the mark at no cost.

    View more comments
    #71

    The Universal Fix: Pizza Gift Card

    Tweet about landlord covering up skylight during apartment renovation causing dust and debris, showing horrible landlord behavior from renters' perspective.

    _samantha_lynn_ Report

    #72

    Tenant Safety vs. Landlord Logic

    Tweet showing a renter’s complaint about a landlord refusing security cameras after a break-in attempt, highlighting horrible landlord behavior.

    mielfuzz Report

    Mike F
    Community Member
    2 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Landlord is an accomplice.

    #73

    Landlord Painted Over The Dog Hair On The Windowsills

    Close-up of dirty window sill with hair and dust highlighting poor landlord maintenance in rental property.

    I finally got around to deep cleaning the apartment I just moved into. The landlord had painted over the previous tenant's dog hair and cigarette ash.

    legsandlight Report

    #74

    Received A Text From My Landlord This Morning

    Text message from landlord saying they can no longer support the house and plan to sell, upsetting renters and causing stress.

    Just before I logged in to work. Devastated, can't help but overthink, I have been living here since 2021 and I have a lovely room and housemates. It will be alright I hope but I am so anxious about finding another place soon. The rent was affordable due to increase caps. My day is ruined, I can't focus, FML.

    sadbong Report

    Spidercat
    Community Member
    2 months ago (edited) Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    At least they gave you a heads up and seems willing to discuss...ask a British person about Section 21 notices and then you'll hear some horror stories. EDIT: Section 21 is a 'no fault' eviction notice that a landlord can invoke with no reason needed.

    #75

    "Has Been Profesionally Cleaned"

    Narrow dirty hallway with moldy walls and a stained carpet showing poor landlord maintenance in a rental property.

    Landlord audacity reached a new level.

    Just moved into a new rental and discovered this, evidence of mold and filth behind some of the furniture that remained in one of the carpeted rooms.

    House has been recently purchased by new owners from an old lady who was sent to live in an aged care facility. We are the first tenants to move in.

    When we moved in they asked if we wanted to use the furniture that remained and we said sure, why not, it looked c**p but we figured it would be a pain to arrange them to collect it and maybe it would be handy.

    Noticed the carpet was a bit old and gross so just to be extra safe I hired a carpet cleaner with my own money from bunnings and started cleaning, the water came out BLACK. Again and again. I went over a bunch of areas to try and remove stains/smells. It also reeks, this rank smell of dirty unclean carpet. I am not a particularly fussy person, but this was not very nice.

    When I went to move the furniture to continue my carpet cleaning, there was dust, dead insects and filth everywhere under and behind this old furniture which also had mold on many sections. Strangely it also looks like someone had apparently been throwing bicarb soda all over the tops of the cupboards too? Maybe the previous Tennant?

    So submitting some photos and videos of our concerns to the real estate we asked if we could remove the carpet ourselves and take it to the tip because it is rank, filthy stinky and based on the mould we found on the furniture, very likely contain mould. We thought this was a good quick easy fix because they don't have to pay for, or do anything.

    So the landlord said they wanted to come look at the floorboards first, the first evening we waited 40 mins but no show due to a storm, okay fair enough stuff happens that's fine.

    The second day my partner met the landlady during his work lunchbreak and she looked at the furniture and floorboards and went home to talk to her partner who works FIFO before they decide.

    Later that day we get an email advising we can remove the carpet, but only under the condition that we varnish and restore the floorboards? Or replace the carpet fully by end of lease.

    So we advised we unfortunatley are not in the position to be able do that, we just asked to remove the carpet as a quick fix at no cost to the owner so we could move in. So alternatively we requested they arrange professional carpet cleaning as an alternative option and they have refused.

    They claim the house has already been "professionally cleaned"???

    The carpet is in every room but the kitchen and bathroom so we have not been able to move in or stay the night currently.

    This has wasted at least 4 days of our time that we had set aside for moving, this has been so stressful when I truly have tried to be accommodating and generous through this process, we had been excitedly planning to do up the garden and make it so nice.

    How can they rent a property out without cleaning it properly? Then claim it has been professionally cleaned when obviously it has not. I am beyond frustrated.

    Can I do anything? Do I have a leg to stand on here? Or do I have to suck it up and learn to love the stinky, mouldy carpet?

    themedatriandra Report

    YakFactory
    Community Member
    2 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Don't learn to love the carpet. It's probably a health hazard. Better for the property owner to fix the flooring properly that to have to pay when you are made unwell by the mould,damp/dirt/smell, and you claim injuries. Then you need effective heating to dry out the premises and prevent more mould.

    View more comments
    #76

    "Landlord Special" Hardware

    Old, rusted door hardware and hinges with peeling paint, illustrating landlords’ neglect in rental properties.

    Just before I logged in to work. Devastated, can't help but overthink, I have been living here since 2021 and I have a lovely room and housemates. It will be alright I hope but I am so anxious about finding another place soon. The rent was affordable due to increase caps. My day is ruined, I can't focus, FML.

    champs Report

    Purple light
    Community Member
    2 months ago (edited) Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Wrong comment under the picture. This is about landlords painting over beautiful old metal hardware and restoring it to its former beauty