Realty Times October 5, 2000

Is Your Apartment Safe?
by Kate Kemp

Just because your apartment seems safe doesn’t mean that it is. Some of the biggest potential problems are the most easily fixed. Take a few minutes to check your apartment out in order to avoid any future dangers.

YOUR APARTMENT SAFETY CHECK LIST-- adapted from Renter's Rights by Attorneys Janet Portman & Marcia Stewart © Nolo.com.

  • Do your doors and windows open easily? If windows are painted shut, or doors stick when opened, this could keep you from getting out in case of a fire.

  • Do the smoke detectors and fire extinguishers work? According to the U.S. Fire Administration, it is estimated that over 40 percent of residential fires and three fifths of residential fatalities occur in homes with no smoke alarms.

  • Do you have strong deadbolt locks and locks on your windows? Some states require these safety features. California, for example recently passed an Apartment Lock Law.

  • Do you have a porch light? If you do, it’s important that it works well enough for you to be able to see at least 100 feet away and is best if you can identify colors at that distance. Good lighting deters burglaries.

  • Are electrical, ventilating and air-conditioning systems in good working order? If they aren’t, you could be victim to carbon monoxide poisoning.

  • Are dumpsters easily accessible? Is there frequent garbage removal? Not only are piles of garbage eyesores... they’re also health hazards.

  • Is the building itself structurally safe? If you see cracks in walls, this could be a sign of foundation damage. Foundation damage can cause an endless number of problems including pipe bursts.

  • Do you have working heat, good plumbing, hot water and weatherproofing?

    If you find answer “no” to any of the things above, you will need to contact your landlord to discuss the problem. S/he may not be aware of the situation

    If your landlord refuses to make repairs or keeps putting off your requests, most states allow tenants to make repairs themselves and deduct the cost from their next rent payment (provided they keep copies of all written repair requests and receipts). Before you deduct from your rent, make sure your state supports this method by clicking here.

    If your landlord ignores your concerns about structural problems or waste removal, you will need to contact your local tenants association and let them know what‘s going on.

    All of the things on the check list above are required by the tenant’s Implied Law of Habitability.


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