Is it legal for landlord to rent out duplex that only has 1 electric meter & water lines and 1 mailbox?

Anonymous Mar 23, 2012 Real Estate 4 views 1 answers

my kids rented a place that only 1 meter for electricity & 1 meter for water. Landlord put in their lease that they have to have electric in their name and pay 2/3 of it & 2/3 of water, sewer & garbage. They also have to share mailbox with downstair tenant. Can they get out of this lease if its not legal dewelling?

Attorney Answer

1

Daniel Garrett WilmotReal Estate AttorneyUniversity Place, WA

Daniel Garrett WilmotReal Estate AttorneyUniversity Place, WA · Jun 15, 2026

If the landlord leased premises that are not a legal dwelling, which appears to be the case here, your kids may have a basis for canceling the lease and an affirmative defense against performance of the lease if the landlord attempts to enforce it. Your kids may also have claims against the landlord for damages. I would recommend having an attorney review the lease immediately.

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