If tenants find themselves facing a bedbug infestation, the first step is to get tenants to realize it is not their fault or a sign of being dirty. Infestations need to be reported immediately and landlords need to take swift action. Tenants Associations can negotiate with landlords, serve as a watchdog to make sure work is done correctly and if necessary, pressure landlords exterminating pests.

Noisy and problematic neighbors are one of the most difficult issues to solve. First off both parties are tenants. Both have rights. These problems range from neighbors selling drugs to throwing an occasional party. It is frustrating for the neighbor who is being disrupted. Our role as hotline counselors is to listen to the complaints and try to help the tenant to remedy the situation. At times the caller's expectation of the neighbor may not be fair or legitimate.

As a tenant, what am I required to do?

• Throw out your trash in a clean and safe manner;
• Use all fixtures (such as lights and ceiling fans) and appliances in a reasonable and safe manner;
• Don’t damage the apartment;
• Don’t disturb your neighbors;
• Make sure your family members and guests act appropriately;
• Provide your landlord with reasonable access to your unit (see below); and
• Obey all the lawful provisions of your lease agreement.

Does my landlord have to give me him/her or anyone else's name, address and telephone number when I move into the apartment?
Yes. Your landlord must give you the names, addresses and telephone numbers of the:

• Owner or manager of the building; and
• Person who can receive, on your landlord's behalf, your notices and demands.

Must I have a written lease agreement?
No. You and your landlord may, if you want,enter into an oral lease agreement. If you have an oral agreement and pay rent on a monthly basis, you have a month-to-month tenancy which either you or your landlord can terminate with at least one month written notice. For more information, see the Leases and Subleases Guide.

What is my landlord responsible for?
Your landlord has a duty to keep your apartment in good shape and make all necessary repairs. If she fails to do this, you may be able to:

• Make the repairs yourself and deduct their cost from your rent;
• Withhold a portion of your rent;
• Sue your landlord; or
• Terminate your lease agreement.This pamphlet explains when and how you can do these things