Summary
In Washington State, landlords must provide adequate heating but arent required to install specific types like pellet stoves. Tenants are responsible for damages beyond normal wear and tear, and landlords can deduct repair costs from the security deposit with an itemized list. For divorce, at least one spouse must be a resident, and property is divided equitably. In California, property acquired during separation may be considered separate property. Consult your attorney for specific advice.Full Conversation
I am a 74 year old recently unemployed home owner. My tenant, who pays on the first of the month regularly, is demanding I install pellet stoves in my basement. This winter I bought her an additional oil radiant heater.
Hello ****, it's important to know your location to provide accurate information. Could you please tell me where you're located?
unincorporated King County Carnation
Hello ****. In King County, landlords must provide adequate heating but aren't specifically required to install pellet stoves. However, they must ensure the rental property is habitable. You've already provided an additional oil radiant heater, which should suffice.
I am getting ready to finally divorce my estranged husband who lives in another state and is on the title.
Hello ****. For a divorce when the spouse lives in another state, you may need to consider:
- Where to file for divorce
- The state's residency requirements
- How property division laws work.
Could you please tell me in which state you reside and your husband resides?
Washington State
In Washington State, for a divorce:
- At least one spouse must be a resident.
- Property is divided equitably.
- The court might consider factors like length of marriage and each party's financial situation.
Please consult with a legal professional for advice.
He resides in California as far as I know.
In case of interstate divorce, the laws of both states could apply. Would you like information on how property division works in California?
I have a family law attorney. My renter will be given a notice that due to upcoming divorce, though she has been a valued renter, she will need to move.
Hello ****. In Washington State, you are required to give at least 20 days' notice before the end of the rental period. However, it's advisable to consult with your attorney to ensure all legal requirements are met.
If property laws in California apply after we have been separated, not legally, for 28 years
In California, property acquired during separation may be considered separate property. However, factors such as the length of separation and each party's actions can affect this. Please consult your attorney for specific advice.
The renter’s cat has created an uninhabitable condition at least once a month. Renter has kitty litter nose.
Hello ****, could you please clarify what you mean by "uninhabitable condition"? Are there damages to the property caused by the cat?
Yes, I have photos. I have recently replaced a range, and fixed one broken door. I have not broken any doors upstairs. Renter also demanded I clean her carpets, I complied due to desire to save my home. Stanley Steemer noted that cat poo was found on carpet. Carpet also had to be desanitized.
In Washington, tenants are generally responsible for damages beyond normal wear and tear caused by their pets. You could potentially deduct repair costs from the security deposit. Consult with your attorney for specific advice.
You have already been beyond helpful. Renter left heater on in downstairs bathroom that damaged varnish on door. I turned heater off and took photos.
Hello ****. In Washington, you can deduct repair costs for damages caused by tenant's negligence from the security deposit. However, you must provide an itemized list of deductions. Consult your attorney for specific advice.
TRY ME!
Start a new chat