Re: Tenant keeps using basement as bedrms - Landlord Forum thread 220008

Re: Tenant keeps using basement as bedrms by ERIC on March 23, 2011 @19:22

I would doubt the Town code says no bedrooms in the basement. A bedroom needs a closet, outlets and an egress window.

But if they turned a basement into a bedroom, even the town would not issue a citation. You cannot 'sell' a basement bedroom, but you can sleep in one.

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Re: Tenant keeps using basement as bedrms by Jezz (NY) on March 23, 2011 @19:30	[ Reply ]

The town rental code does say no living space in the basement.The town would issue violations for the "bedrooms" I was hoping for some help not an argument.

Re: Tenant keeps using basement as bedrms by ERIC on March 24, 2011 @08:22

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I wasn't arguing. I am having a hard time trying to understand how a split-level, a walk out, or a fully finished basement with egress windows would not be allowed.

I am also having a hard time understanding how a Town would even know about it. I even have a hard time understanding how a Town would even be able to enforce it, much less if a DA or Code enforcement person could prosecute for it. Or how a Judge would be able to issue fine for a unconstitutional ordinance.

You cannot 'make' people stay out of a basement unless you board it up. If they want to sleep there, it's their own business, not yours.

Re: Tenant keeps using basement as bedrms by DIzzy (Wonderland) on March 24, 2011 @10:04	[ Reply ]

Amazing - if there is a fire and someone is hurt, the LL is responsible and the insurance company can disavow due to illegal residency and in fact I would expect the insurance company to pursue this in court; if the city/town has; no basement dwelling, you can believe the city/town can enforce and fine a LL. It's an illegal use of space, and again, if a firefighter should be hurt rescuing someone from there - wow, mega-lawsuit. for reference see MN code 244.1910

Re: Tenant keeps using basement as bedrms