Tenant Rights In Court

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Summary

To avoid paying rent in bond court, document mold and appliance issues with photos and test results. Show communications with your landlord and bring witnesses. South Carolina law requires landlords to maintain habitable living conditions.

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I have bond court in the morning to determine how much rent I have to pay to stay in my apartment while we wait to go to court. What can I do in court to not have to pay rent since the landlord refused to do anything about the mold and the oven and dishwasher not working since I moved in?
Hi ****, you can present your case effectively by doing the following:
- Document the issues with photos and written records.
- Show evidence of your communications with the landlord about the problems.
- Bring witnesses who can testify to the conditions.
- Argue that the landlord has violated the habitability standards under North Carolina law.
Can you describe the mold issue in more detail?
there is visible mold that is getting worse on the ceiling in the bathroom and under the kitchen sink. I bought a mold test kit and it tested positive,
Hi ****,
Thank you for the detailed information. Here are some steps you can take to strengthen your case in court:
- **Document the mold**: Take clear photos of the mold in the bathroom and under the kitchen sink.
- **Test Results**: Bring the positive mold test results.
- **Communication Records**: Provide copies of any communications with your landlord about the mold and other issues.
- **Witnesses**: If possible, bring witnesses who can testify to the conditions.
Under North Carolina law, landlords are required to maintain habitable residences. Mold and non-functional appliances can be considered violations of these standards.
Is there any additional information or assistance you need?
this is in south carolina
Hi ****,
Thank you for clarifying your location. In South Carolina, landlords are also required to maintain habitable living conditions. Here are steps you can take:
- **Document the mold**: Take clear photos.
- **Test Results**: Bring the positive mold test results.
- **Communication Records**: Show any communications with your landlord.
- **Witnesses**: Bring witnesses to testify.
Would you like information on the nearest court or any other assistance?