Tenant Hoarding Cleanup Solutions

Summary

If youre dealing with tenant hoarding issues, your landlord must maintain habitable premises under Washington State law. Communicate with code enforcement for possible extensions and seek legal aid for financial assistance programs. For elderly landlords, explore financial aid and legal services for seniors. Volunteer cleanup services from community groups, non-profits, or churches can help. Call 2-1-1 for local resources. In a lawsuit response, include your tenancy history, situation details, cleanup efforts, and financial concerns.

Full Conversation

I have been living as a tenant at the same property for over 20 years. In the past year or so, two tenants, who were living outside in a trailer and a tent, exhibited such extreme hoarding that it drew the attention of neighbors, and, ultimately, local Code Enforcement. The tenants were finally evicted about 4 months ago-- it took legal action to get them to finally leave, since they were threatening my life and exploiting my elderly landlord. But they left all their mess, and I'm worried my landlord will go broke if we can't get the place cleaned up before the abatement that code enforcement is threatening us with.
Hi Barry! It sounds like a tough situation. Here are a few things you can consider:
- Washington State Landlord-Tenant Laws: Your landlord has the responsibility to maintain habitable premises.
- Code Enforcement Communication: Keep open communication with them to possibly get an extension.
- Legal Aid: Seek legal aid services for advice on potential financial assistance programs.
Do you want to connect with local lawyers who can assist you further with this matter?
What if my landlord is an elderly person? I am living there to help take care of him.
Hi Barry! If your landlord is elderly and you're helping take care of him, you might want to explore the following options:
- Elderly Financial Assistance Programs: Look into state or local programs that provide financial aid for elderly homeowners.
- Legal Aid for Seniors: Seek out organizations that offer free or low-cost legal services for seniors.
- Volunteer Cleanup Services: Search for local community groups or non-profits that may offer volunteer cleanup services.
Would you like more information on any of these options?
Yes! Volunteer cleanup services
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Hi Barry! You can look for local community groups, non-profits, or church organizations in your area that offer volunteer cleanup services. They often assist in situations like yours, especially when elderly individuals are involved. If you need more help finding specific services, let me know!
Okay. How should I reach out to them?
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Hi Barry! Here are some steps to reach out to volunteer cleanup services:
- Community Groups: Check local community centers or online community boards like Nextdoor.
- Non-Profits: Contact organizations such as Habitat for Humanity.
- Churches: Reach out to local churches, many have volunteer programs.

You can also call *-*-* for more assistance in finding local resources. Good luck!
What kind of information should I include in my response to the lawsuit?
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Hi Barry! In your response to the lawsuit, you should include:
- Your History: Mention your *-year tenancy and your role in assisting your elderly landlord.
- Details of the Situation: Describe the hoarding issue, the eviction of the problem tenants, and the resulting mess.
- Current Efforts: Explain any steps you've taken to clean up or seek assistance.
- Concerns: Highlight your concerns about the financial burden on your elderly landlord and the potential abatement.
Would you like more specific guidance on drafting your response?
what is *?
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Hi Barry! *-*-* is a free and confidential service that helps people across North America find local resources they need, such as food, housing, health services, and more. You can dial *-*-* on your phone to get connected to assistance in your area.
is it open */*?
Case Rating: *
Yes, Barry. The *-*-* service is available */*. You can call them at any time for assistance.