Lead Poisoning Legal Rights

Summary

Landlords in New Hampshire must maintain safe properties, including addressing lead hazards. Tenants can report non-compliance to health authorities and may withhold rent or sue for damages. Consult a local attorney for guidance.

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Keene New Hampshire
Hello ****. Thank you for providing your location. Could you please elaborate on the specific legal issue you're facing in Keene, New Hampshire?
In February of * my 12mo old tested for lead poisoning. Level of *.*
Hello ****. I'm sorry to hear about your situation. It's important to know the source of the lead and if the level of exposure was due to negligence. Have you identified where the exposure came from?
Yes, the state of NH has come and did an evaluation. There is lead paint in the walls and windows of my apartment. I rent. My landlord seems to be dragging his feet getting the renovations done and meanwhile we are living here being exposed to lead.
Hello ****. I'm sorry to hear about your situation. In New Hampshire, landlords are responsible for maintaining safe and habitable properties.
- If landlords fail to address lead hazards, tenants may be entitled to withhold rent or sue for damages.
- You may also report your landlord to local health or housing authorities.
Please consult with a local attorney for advice tailored to your situation.
I have made attempts to get him to at least make the place safe to live until the final renovations can happen. He told me to do it myself
Hello ****. In New Hampshire, tenants have rights to safe and habitable housing, which includes lead hazard abatement. If your landlord is refusing to address the issue:
- You can report this to the New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services.
- You may also take legal action to enforce your rights.
Please consult a local attorney for further guidance.
Do I have the right to tell him I’m not paying rent till I get this resolved?
Hello ****. In New Hampshire, under certain circumstances:
- Tenants may have the right to withhold rent until serious health and safety issues are resolved.
- However, this should be done cautiously and with legal advice to avoid eviction.
Always consult a local attorney before taking such steps.
My landlord also did not disclose the fact that there could potentially be lead paint in the walls, the house being older than *
Hello ****. In New Hampshire:
- Landlords are required to disclose the presence of lead-based paint for properties built before *.
- Failure to do so can lead to legal consequences.
Please consult with a local attorney for further help.
How can I get connected with a lawyer who can help
Hello ****. In New Hampshire, you can get legal help by contacting the New Hampshire Legal Assistance at *-*-*-* or visiting their website. They can help you connect with a lawyer who specializes in landlord-tenant law.