06/18/2026
Anonymous message received:
I’m currently paying way too much for a basement apartment, and I’m honestly at my breaking point.
When I moved in, the landlord promised several things, including providing an A/C. I had my own, but he told me he didn’t want it in the window, so I ended up selling it. Yesterday, I came home and it was 89 degrees inside.
I asked if there were screens for the windows and got ignored.
I’m not the type to keep asking over and over, especially for things that were already discussed or should be basic living conditions.
On top of that, the owner lives in the property and I’m constantly being woken up at all hours. When their washer and dryer run, it vibrates through my apartment. I also smell cigarette smoke inside, but I feel like there’s nothing I can really say.
At this point, I’m tired, hot, frustrated, and honestly over it. I’m considering telling them to use my security deposit as my last month’s rent and just leaving, especially since I never signed the lease.
I’ve already dealt with a previous landlord charging $1,350 for a place with no kitchen. It feels like tenants are being squeezed more and more while being expected to accept poor living conditions.
I’m exhausted and worried I may end up back in my car again.
What would you do in this situation?