questions & answers

Question: landlaw filed a eviction on me in 5 days after rent due date. I living there years without being late . I finally paid the rent and he tact on 200 more for court fees. we never went to court, he said he cancel court since I paid but he kept the 200, my land law never showed me the lease or any papers of evictions, or gave me a receipt , he always gave excuses questions I ask of him and many repairs he failed to do

Answer: Generally the landlord is responsible to his or her tenant to maintain a safe living environment, wand if the home is causing illness or poses a danger they must take care of it within a reasonable time frame. The AZLawHelp article located here (http://www.azlawhelp.org/articles_info.cfm?mc=3&sc=24&articleid=46) states the following: “Landlords must provide several things in exchange for rental payments. One of the most basic and important requirements is that your landlord provide you and your family with a healthy and safe living environment. Your living environment includes your apartment or home, and any common areas the landlord owns and holds open to residents. Things Your Landlord Must Provide The law specifically states: • Your landlord must keep all appliances, which they supply, in working order. • Your landlord must provide you with a way to dispose of garbage. • Your landlord must make it possible for you to receive running water, including hot water. • Your landlord must supply everything they promised in the lease. They can only shut off your utilities in a few very limited situations. If you rent a home, your landlord and yourself can agree that you will perform the maintenance on the property. You must, however, be given some consideration, such as being paid or having your rent reduced.” To determine how to proceed, it is best to contact an attorney. A list of available resources is available here (http://www.azlawhelp.org/legalaidlisting.cfm) on the AZLawHelp website, which includes the contact information for free Community Legal Services. There is also an article on selecting a lawyer (http://www.azlawhelp.org/articles_info.cfm?mc=5&sc=36&articleid=151) which has information on preparing for your meetings and aiding your counsel.