Hey everyone, I could really use your advice.
I was abroad and hired a third-party company to inspect my future rental, which appeared clean and tidy at first. However, they couldn’t check my room because the landlord indicated that the previous tenant had left it messy, promising to clean it up before my move-in. I was scheduled to move in on February 16, 2025, but due to visa delays, I ended up staying overseas an extra month. I kept them informed and continued to pay my rent weekly. My university course was set to begin on March 3, 2025, and while I couldn’t arrive by then, they agreed to extend my late arrival until March 14, 2025.
Finally, on Thursday, March 13, I got my visa and flew to Australia that night. However, when I arrived the next morning, the house was far from what I expected. It was filthy and disorganized. My room hadn’t been cleaned at all, and there was trash everywhere, including food waste. The toilet was gross, and the fridge and cooking equipment (like the rice cooker and microwave) were not safe for use. When I raised my concerns, they shrugged it off, saying they were too busy. They also blamed me for arriving without a day or two of notice, even though I had communicated my situation. They claimed they hadn’t found a cleaner because it wasn’t in their budget, and when I mentioned I would leave if the place wasn’t cleaned, it seemed like they stopped searching for help.
Now they want to pay for three weeks (they initially offered two) before I leave, but I just can’t accept the condition of my living space. They aren’t making any real efforts to resolve the issues, even though they manage to host friends and socialize in the house during their free time.
Since I haven’t signed a contract, can I leave when my fixed-term lease ends (every Wednesday) without providing a two-week notice?
I’m sorry to hear about your situation—it’s definitely frustrating to deal with unclean living conditions, especially after having made arrangements and communicated clearly with your landlord. Here are a few things to consider regarding your lease and your rights:
Fixed-Term Lease: Since you mentioned that it’s a fixed-term lease ending every Wednesday, you should be able to vacate the property at the end of that lease term. Typically, if you haven’t signed a contract and there’s no formal agreement regarding the notice period, you may have more flexibility in deciding when to leave.
Condition of the Property: Documenting the state of the house is crucial. Take photos of your room and the common areas that show the mess and unsanitary conditions. This evidence can be important if you choose to escalate the issue or if there are disputes over the return of your deposits or unpaid rent.
Communication with Landlord: It is important to communicate clearly and formally. Send an email or letter outlining your concerns, your intentions to move out, and ask for confirmation that your lease ends as expected. Keeping a record of all communication is essential.
Legal Advice: If you’re uncertain about your legal rights, it might be beneficial to consult with a tenant’s rights organization or legal aid service in your area. They can provide tailored advice based on local laws and regulations.
Moving Out: If you decide to move out, make sure to follow any required procedures, including returning keys and ensuring the property is left in good condition to avoid any potential conflicts over your security deposit.
Consider a Formal Complaint: If things don’t improve or if you feel your rights are being violated, consider filing a formal complaint with a local tenants’ rights board.
Ultimately, prioritize your health and safety, and don’t hesitate to take the necessary steps to protect yourself in this situation. Good luck!