Bats In Mobile Home Attic

Summary

Tenants have rights when it comes to habitable housing. If your landlord fails to address major repair issues, you may be able to deduct repair costs, break the lease, or sue for damages. Keep documentation of all communication and consider sending a certified letter to your landlord detailing the issue.

Full Conversation

I rent a mobile home. I have bats in the attic space. Bat guano is falling from crack in ceiling onto the floor and several bats have got into the house. I contacted lanlord a week ago. All she told me to do was spray peppermint oil in crack and to caulk. Have not heard from her in 3 days.
What state are you located in, ****? This will help me provide you with the most accurate information regarding landlord-tenant laws in your area.
Texas
What steps have you taken so far, apart from contacting your landlord?

In Texas, landlords are legally required to provide habitable housing. This includes addressing pest infestations.
My husband nailed small thin trim work back on wall and ran tape along the ceiling. I sent lanlord several pictures of bat guano on floor and the bats coming through the crack, as well as several we caught
Have you documented all your communication with the landlord regarding this issue? In Texas, tenants can take certain actions if landlords fail to make necessary repairs.
Yes, i have all the messages and pictures i sent her and her responses
What is the duration of your lease agreement with the landlord? In Texas, tenants can break a lease if the landlord fails to address major repair issues.
1 year
What is the remaining duration of your lease agreement?

In Texas, if a landlord fails to address major repair issues, tenants can:
- Deduct repair costs from rent
- Break the lease
- Sue for damages
6 months
Have you considered sending a certified letter to your landlord detailing the issue and the steps you've taken so far? In Texas, this is often a necessary step before taking further action.
Not a certified letter. But I can
That's a good idea. A certified letter can serve as a legal proof of your communication. Do you need help drafting it?
Yes
What is your landlord's full name and address? This information is necessary to address the certified letter correctly.
JULIA Roberts
What is the exact address of the mobile home you are renting?
I will have toblook up her address
Sure, take your time. It's important to have the correct address for any legal correspondence.