38. Poor Upkeep



1.

A: I would like to make an appointment to discuss the problems I keep having with my apartment.

B: Are you having problems? This is the first I've heard of it.

A: We gave you a list of problems last week.

B: What kind of problems are you talking about?

A: The garbage disposal doesn't work, we have rats, and the toilet is backed up.

B: Maybe I could get back to you in a few weeks. I am leaving on vacation this afternoon.

A: These things are your responsibility, and you need to fix them immediately.

B: Don't tell me what to do! I'll get to it when I get around to it!

A: If these problems are not addressed immediately, I will be contacting the health department this Friday.

B: I'll be right over!



2.

A: We would like you to stop by again so we can show you some more problems that have come up with our apartment.

B: I am kind of busy right now, but maybe later next week I could stop by.

A: We sent you an e-mail the first week we moved in; it listed the problems we found.

B: What problems did you find?

A: The roof leaks when it rains, there is mold on the bedroom walls, and the dishwasher doesn't work.

B: I don't really consider any of that to be my responsibility. You can fix those things yourself.

A: Maintaining basic health and safety standards is your responsibility.

B: I am maintaining the building. You are way too picky!

A: Unfortunately, you won't be getting a rent check unless these problems are fixed by Friday.

B: You wouldn't dare do that!



3.

A: You really need to look at some of the problems we are having with the apartment.

B: That apartment never had any problems before. Are you sure the problem isn't you?

A: We spoke with you the first week we moved in about things that you promised to fix.

B: Where do you think you have problems?

A: There is no hot water, the bedroom has a broken window, and there are rats in the kitchen.

B: You know, no one else who has been in that apartment has had a problem before.

A: You are obligated to maintain your building and my apartment.

B: I will fix these problems when I get around to it.

A: I will be withholding my rent check this Friday unless these problems are addressed immediately.

B: You can't do that! It's illegal!



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