Feeling uncertain about renting a room in a new house.
March 7, 2016 12:54 PM Subscribe
My landlords are making changes to our house/living space, and I'm very torn as a result of those changes, and feel stuck making a decision. More inside the fold.
I recently had a conversation with my landlords this recent weekend about our living situation for the next year. We live in the NOMA/Gallaudet area in DC (for any DC MeFites).
The place where I've been living at since 2012 is going through some changes. The landlords are building a new house next door to where our domicile is (townhouse style - we live in DC). The lot is currently empty, with the slab not yet laid. Their expectation is 6-8 months for construction.
The current room I live in alone is $500/month, plus utilities (water, gas, electricity, and Internet/TV). I live with 5 other roommates. My current room is about 9x10, with a nice view from outside my window. My lease expires on 5/31.
How it will work is, my landlords will continue to charge me $500 for my current room starting 6/1, until the new house is built and approved for occupancy by the DC government. From there, they'll charge me $650 for my new room, plus utilities, with the lease expiring on 5/31/2017. They said that approximately September-November would be when the switchover would take place. I'm dubious about this due to the empty lot not even being flattened (it's on a slope) and the slab not being laid, and potential construction problems/delays occurring (construction rarely finishes on time).
I'm feeling really torn about the new room/this whole configuration. My new room, which I will occupy alone, will be part of an unit with two floors (main floor having the kitchen and living room, then the basement with three bedrooms and two bathrooms (one master bath, and one shared bath). I'll be occupying the middle room, which does not have a window, and sharing a bathroom with one other roommate. The other unit, which is above us and will be completely separate, will be for my landlords and one's girlfriend.
Here's the pros and cons:
Pros:
I'll be living with 2 other roommates vs. 5 others now.
I'll remain very close to work (walking takes 10-12 minutes, so I commute by walking).
There'll be three toilet seats for three people.
Cons:
No window. This is quite major, because I'll lose a nice view and be able to differentiate between daytime/nighttime.
My new room will be slightly smaller by square foot (8x9 vs. the current 9x10). This is a bit tricky because my current room is narrow/rectangular, but the new room will be square, so may seem a bit bigger.
I'm feeling very unsure about this because of a number of reasons - the biggest loss, I feel, is there being no window at all in my room. The size shouldn't be an issue, given that I don't have much, but still is a small turnoff. I'm also a bit nervous about moving into a freshly built house - new construction always have their share of problems and kinks that need to be sorted out. I also don't like the $150 price increase, although I can understand that being a reality due to it being DC and the new construction.
On the positive side, having less roommates would be a bonus, and I know I can always hang out in the living room (which does have a window), then make my room sleep-only. It's just not going to feel the same, and I'm dreading the change of having a beautiful view (including sunsets!) to nothing.
My budget allows for up to $800-900 for rent. My salary is only $40k a year, translating in approx. $2k a month of net income after taxes and insurance is deducted from my paycheck, and I have student loan payments coming up soon, which would be around $150-350 a month. I've done some apartment hunting and can't find a single/studio apartment in the DC area for less than $850, unfortunately, and the only ones that cheap are inconvenient and/or in sketchy areas. I don't have a car.
In addition to this, to make things complicated, the reason I would really prefer living alone is because of my parcopresis/shy bowel. I can imagine having three toilet seats would help in the upcoming new house, but it's still something I struggle with, and need the space. That's why I'd prefer living alone, or having 2-bedroom/2-bath apartments, which is expensive in this city. The master bedroom/bath in the new house will be $1200/month, a price rate I cannot afford with my current salary/obligations.
My landlords want an answer ASAP to my confirmation on this/signing the modified lease, even though they always gave us 60-day notice in the past, so I'm feeling a bit rushed on this. They also seem a bit unsure on some aspects of the new house, and when another roommate brought up a concern about the layout, they said making any changes would require an architect's fee. I might be wrong, but the vibe I'm getting from my landlords is "you're very lucky we're giving you such a good deal on this; this is what we're doing." A bit of the "our way or the highway" attitude, although not necessarily that bad. It's also important to note that my landlords are also my friends. We're all deaf. That makes the situation a bit more sticky.
So. I know this was long-winded, but bottom line - I'm really feeling torn about this and would like thoughts/other input. I also want strategies on how to deal with my landlords wanting to know like right now about my final decision, despite the previously-stated decision deadline of 3/31. I also want to avoid being manipulated when airing any concerns I have, by being told "well, you're getting a good deal! We can price the room higher." I also would welcome any suggestions or ideas on finding a studio/cheaper apartment, or any ideas on how to make this livable and stay where I am. Any thoughts or what you'd do if in my shoes, would also help.
I understand and recognize that the final decision is on me, obviously, but I really feel torn and in between a rock and hard place, so want to see what other thoughts are out there to help me process this a bit better and make the decision in a better place. I welcome any additional questions and/or clarification.
Thanks!
I recently had a conversation with my landlords this recent weekend about our living situation for the next year. We live in the NOMA/Gallaudet area in DC (for any DC MeFites).
The place where I've been living at since 2012 is going through some changes. The landlords are building a new house next door to where our domicile is (townhouse style - we live in DC). The lot is currently empty, with the slab not yet laid. Their expectation is 6-8 months for construction.
The current room I live in alone is $500/month, plus utilities (water, gas, electricity, and Internet/TV). I live with 5 other roommates. My current room is about 9x10, with a nice view from outside my window. My lease expires on 5/31.
How it will work is, my landlords will continue to charge me $500 for my current room starting 6/1, until the new house is built and approved for occupancy by the DC government. From there, they'll charge me $650 for my new room, plus utilities, with the lease expiring on 5/31/2017. They said that approximately September-November would be when the switchover would take place. I'm dubious about this due to the empty lot not even being flattened (it's on a slope) and the slab not being laid, and potential construction problems/delays occurring (construction rarely finishes on time).
I'm feeling really torn about the new room/this whole configuration. My new room, which I will occupy alone, will be part of an unit with two floors (main floor having the kitchen and living room, then the basement with three bedrooms and two bathrooms (one master bath, and one shared bath). I'll be occupying the middle room, which does not have a window, and sharing a bathroom with one other roommate. The other unit, which is above us and will be completely separate, will be for my landlords and one's girlfriend.
Here's the pros and cons:
Pros:
I'll be living with 2 other roommates vs. 5 others now.
I'll remain very close to work (walking takes 10-12 minutes, so I commute by walking).
There'll be three toilet seats for three people.
Cons:
No window. This is quite major, because I'll lose a nice view and be able to differentiate between daytime/nighttime.
My new room will be slightly smaller by square foot (8x9 vs. the current 9x10). This is a bit tricky because my current room is narrow/rectangular, but the new room will be square, so may seem a bit bigger.
I'm feeling very unsure about this because of a number of reasons - the biggest loss, I feel, is there being no window at all in my room. The size shouldn't be an issue, given that I don't have much, but still is a small turnoff. I'm also a bit nervous about moving into a freshly built house - new construction always have their share of problems and kinks that need to be sorted out. I also don't like the $150 price increase, although I can understand that being a reality due to it being DC and the new construction.
On the positive side, having less roommates would be a bonus, and I know I can always hang out in the living room (which does have a window), then make my room sleep-only. It's just not going to feel the same, and I'm dreading the change of having a beautiful view (including sunsets!) to nothing.
My budget allows for up to $800-900 for rent. My salary is only $40k a year, translating in approx. $2k a month of net income after taxes and insurance is deducted from my paycheck, and I have student loan payments coming up soon, which would be around $150-350 a month. I've done some apartment hunting and can't find a single/studio apartment in the DC area for less than $850, unfortunately, and the only ones that cheap are inconvenient and/or in sketchy areas. I don't have a car.
In addition to this, to make things complicated, the reason I would really prefer living alone is because of my parcopresis/shy bowel. I can imagine having three toilet seats would help in the upcoming new house, but it's still something I struggle with, and need the space. That's why I'd prefer living alone, or having 2-bedroom/2-bath apartments, which is expensive in this city. The master bedroom/bath in the new house will be $1200/month, a price rate I cannot afford with my current salary/obligations.
My landlords want an answer ASAP to my confirmation on this/signing the modified lease, even though they always gave us 60-day notice in the past, so I'm feeling a bit rushed on this. They also seem a bit unsure on some aspects of the new house, and when another roommate brought up a concern about the layout, they said making any changes would require an architect's fee. I might be wrong, but the vibe I'm getting from my landlords is "you're very lucky we're giving you such a good deal on this; this is what we're doing." A bit of the "our way or the highway" attitude, although not necessarily that bad. It's also important to note that my landlords are also my friends. We're all deaf. That makes the situation a bit more sticky.
So. I know this was long-winded, but bottom line - I'm really feeling torn about this and would like thoughts/other input. I also want strategies on how to deal with my landlords wanting to know like right now about my final decision, despite the previously-stated decision deadline of 3/31. I also want to avoid being manipulated when airing any concerns I have, by being told "well, you're getting a good deal! We can price the room higher." I also would welcome any suggestions or ideas on finding a studio/cheaper apartment, or any ideas on how to make this livable and stay where I am. Any thoughts or what you'd do if in my shoes, would also help.
I understand and recognize that the final decision is on me, obviously, but I really feel torn and in between a rock and hard place, so want to see what other thoughts are out there to help me process this a bit better and make the decision in a better place. I welcome any additional questions and/or clarification.
Thanks!
I think not having a window will be an unpleasant change. Any reason you can't stay in your current room?
posted by studioaudience at 12:59 PM on March 7, 2016
posted by studioaudience at 12:59 PM on March 7, 2016
Yeah you usually need a window for something to legally be a bedroom in an apartment in the US, and some quick googling indicates this appears to be the case in DC.
posted by zachlipton at 1:01 PM on March 7, 2016 [1 favorite]
posted by zachlipton at 1:01 PM on March 7, 2016 [1 favorite]
No, you are not renting a room with NO WINDOW. On the other hand, there is no rush here because they have no slab and are going to be mired in planning permits for the no-window build for... well, ever.
Also, why do you not get to choose your own room?!?! Like... with a window?!?!
posted by DarlingBri at 1:02 PM on March 7, 2016 [1 favorite]
Also, why do you not get to choose your own room?!?! Like... with a window?!?!
posted by DarlingBri at 1:02 PM on March 7, 2016 [1 favorite]
Thirding no egress window = not a legal bedroom.
posted by thomas j wise at 1:02 PM on March 7, 2016 [2 favorites]
posted by thomas j wise at 1:02 PM on March 7, 2016 [2 favorites]
Yeah, having a windowless bedroom, while being illegal, is also a big hazard. If you're in your room and there's a fire, how do you get out if your door is blocked? No go for me.
posted by xingcat at 1:07 PM on March 7, 2016
posted by xingcat at 1:07 PM on March 7, 2016
Response by poster: Interesting. However, that reminds me - the definition of my bedroom on the architect's printout actually referred to it as a "den." Not sure if that makes a difference?
As for why I can't stay where I am - once the new house is built up, my landlords plan to either sell the existing house or rent it out to a family. They plan to do that right after the new house is completed and approved for occupancy.
posted by dubious_dude at 1:08 PM on March 7, 2016
As for why I can't stay where I am - once the new house is built up, my landlords plan to either sell the existing house or rent it out to a family. They plan to do that right after the new house is completed and approved for occupancy.
posted by dubious_dude at 1:08 PM on March 7, 2016
I can't imagine a contractor or an architect would allow for a windowless room, unless that "room" is actually a walk-in closet your LL's are masquerading as a bedroom. Rooms have windows, closets do not.
And they want to charge you more for this privilege? Yeah, no.
posted by vivzan at 1:09 PM on March 7, 2016 [11 favorites]
And they want to charge you more for this privilege? Yeah, no.
posted by vivzan at 1:09 PM on March 7, 2016 [11 favorites]
The reason the room is labeled "Den" on the plans is that the building department wouldn't be able to approve construction otherwise. That's why that's that.
Regardless, your landlord can't legally rent a windowless bedroom.
posted by humboldt32 at 1:13 PM on March 7, 2016 [34 favorites]
Regardless, your landlord can't legally rent a windowless bedroom.
posted by humboldt32 at 1:13 PM on March 7, 2016 [34 favorites]
Interesting. However, that reminds me - the definition of my bedroom on the architect's printout actually referred to it as a "den." Not sure if that makes a difference?
I bet that's precisely because it doesn't meet the building code definition of a bedroom (having a window or exterior door).
posted by lock sock and barrel at 1:14 PM on March 7, 2016 [4 favorites]
I bet that's precisely because it doesn't meet the building code definition of a bedroom (having a window or exterior door).
posted by lock sock and barrel at 1:14 PM on March 7, 2016 [4 favorites]
Nthing that this is illegal. Do not rent a room with only one form of egress. People have died in fires because of illegal setups like this.
In addition to the whole illegal death trap thing, unless there's central air conditioning and you have control over the AC, it's going to get horribly stuffy in there. I once had an apartment with a windowless bedroom (two doors, though, so technically legal and some air flow) and it was unbearable in the summer, to the point where I slept in the living room. Wouldn't do that again.
posted by Metroid Baby at 1:16 PM on March 7, 2016 [8 favorites]
In addition to the whole illegal death trap thing, unless there's central air conditioning and you have control over the AC, it's going to get horribly stuffy in there. I once had an apartment with a windowless bedroom (two doors, though, so technically legal and some air flow) and it was unbearable in the summer, to the point where I slept in the living room. Wouldn't do that again.
posted by Metroid Baby at 1:16 PM on March 7, 2016 [8 favorites]
Not only is it illegal, it's also unhealthy. You can't live there.
posted by mumimor at 1:17 PM on March 7, 2016 [2 favorites]
posted by mumimor at 1:17 PM on March 7, 2016 [2 favorites]
humboldt32 is right on the money. Your municipality never would have approved those drawings if they had labelled that a bedroom. A life safety issue like this would be a MEGA dealbreaker for me and it should be for you too.
Your landlords seem really pushy. It sounds like they know this is a bunk deal and they're trying desperately to convince you otherwise. I'd start looking for a new place to live.
posted by futureisunwritten at 1:19 PM on March 7, 2016 [2 favorites]
Your landlords seem really pushy. It sounds like they know this is a bunk deal and they're trying desperately to convince you otherwise. I'd start looking for a new place to live.
posted by futureisunwritten at 1:19 PM on March 7, 2016 [2 favorites]
Nthing it's terribly unsafe and bad to rent a room with no window. So no, give it a pass. Start looking for a new place. Perhaps a unicorn studio where you have the whole place to yourself.
But no window, no way.
posted by Ruthless Bunny at 1:20 PM on March 7, 2016
But no window, no way.
posted by Ruthless Bunny at 1:20 PM on March 7, 2016
Landlord is upgrading your living quarters from a bedroom to a closet and charging you more per month for this? Find somewhere else.
posted by SillyShepherd at 1:25 PM on March 7, 2016 [10 favorites]
posted by SillyShepherd at 1:25 PM on March 7, 2016 [10 favorites]
I had a bedroom in DC without a window over 10 years ago, not far from Gallaudet, and my rent was $500 plus utilities. So right now, you really have an unbelievable deal and I think it's, unfortunately, pretty unlikely for you to get such a good deal again, inside the District. So no matter what, you are probably looking at a significant rent increase. It sucks, I know.
That said, my windowless bedroom in DC totally sucked and I only lasted in it about 4 months before I just couldn't take it anymore.
posted by lunasol at 1:26 PM on March 7, 2016
That said, my windowless bedroom in DC totally sucked and I only lasted in it about 4 months before I just couldn't take it anymore.
posted by lunasol at 1:26 PM on March 7, 2016
"Den" is landlord-speak for illegal bedroom. Your landlord knows he has you in a corner and is using that against you.
posted by zachlipton at 1:27 PM on March 7, 2016 [4 favorites]
posted by zachlipton at 1:27 PM on March 7, 2016 [4 favorites]
How come you're the one who gets stuck with the windowless room, anyway? Not that your roommates deserve it any more than you do, but how come your landlords are dictating which individual room you'll be taking?
posted by showbiz_liz at 1:37 PM on March 7, 2016
posted by showbiz_liz at 1:37 PM on March 7, 2016
Response by poster: They offered it to me. The other bedroom (without a bathroom, but with a bay window) is $1000, and $1200 for the master bedroom. They probably offered it to me because they knew $650 was within my price range.
My other roommates are interested in the other rooms.
posted by dubious_dude at 1:39 PM on March 7, 2016
My other roommates are interested in the other rooms.
posted by dubious_dude at 1:39 PM on March 7, 2016
Nthing that this is not actually a legal bedroom, and is likely to be unsafe and unpleasant to live in besides.
How do you like the other people in your house? Are any of them interested in moving out and looking for a two-bed with you? (Or if any of them are moving out as a result of this, can you snag their bedroom instead?)
posted by pie ninja at 1:40 PM on March 7, 2016 [1 favorite]
How do you like the other people in your house? Are any of them interested in moving out and looking for a two-bed with you? (Or if any of them are moving out as a result of this, can you snag their bedroom instead?)
posted by pie ninja at 1:40 PM on March 7, 2016 [1 favorite]
"My new room will be slightly smaller by square foot (8x9 vs. the current 9x10). This is a bit tricky because my current room is narrow/rectangular, but the new room will be square, so may seem a bit bigger."
I'm confused--if anything 8x9 is slightly less square than 9x10.
posted by bfields at 2:01 PM on March 7, 2016
I'm confused--if anything 8x9 is slightly less square than 9x10.
posted by bfields at 2:01 PM on March 7, 2016
Response by poster: Okay, so I'm a bit overwhelmed by all the responses about safety. I honestly didn't think of that, and I'm really hoping my landlords didn't think of that, either, because they are my friends, and I would hate to think they are doing this intentionally without regard for my safety and well-being. They kept emphasizing how I am a good roommate, how I do a lot for the house, etc., so this thread was a real eye-opener.
How would you recommend I go about searching for another place? Like I said, there's not many options out there. Another roommate, who is a bit unsure about the whole thing, I could see if maybe we can find a 2br-2b apartment instead, or even 2br-1b, but I'm not sure if he would be open to that. I can try. But, any suggestions could help.
Also, how would it be unpleasant to live in, other than the lack of window? If I add pictures/posters, and go upstairs to the living room to enjoy the view, it really shouldn't be that bad, would it? (obviously, other than not having a window)
Also, my bad - the den is 9x8-'4. Has a closet, too.
posted by dubious_dude at 2:01 PM on March 7, 2016
How would you recommend I go about searching for another place? Like I said, there's not many options out there. Another roommate, who is a bit unsure about the whole thing, I could see if maybe we can find a 2br-2b apartment instead, or even 2br-1b, but I'm not sure if he would be open to that. I can try. But, any suggestions could help.
Also, how would it be unpleasant to live in, other than the lack of window? If I add pictures/posters, and go upstairs to the living room to enjoy the view, it really shouldn't be that bad, would it? (obviously, other than not having a window)
Also, my bad - the den is 9x8-'4. Has a closet, too.
posted by dubious_dude at 2:01 PM on March 7, 2016
I'm really hoping my landlords didn't think of that, either, because they are my friends, and I would hate to think they are doing this intentionally without regard for my safety and well-being.
Well they are not building the house for you. So since the house isn't even built yet, you could give them a chance to "make this right" and basically saying "Look I can't live in an illegal/unsafe room in the new house so either make this room a legal bedroom, make me a different offer or let's talk about extending my lease in this place until the new place is built and then I will move on."
They will not want to have to fill your room in a house they are going to want to move into. You said you're a good tenant. You have more negotiating room here than you think. The issue with an illegal room isn't just safety (though that is the big one) but that if your landlords are discovered you might have to move at some point in the future in a hurry which is super inconvenient.
If it were me I'd be consulting wit some tenant's rights groups to see what your options are and in the meantime put them off because they can't really make you sign a new lease NOWNOW NOW as much as that might be convenient for them.
posted by jessamyn at 2:09 PM on March 7, 2016 [17 favorites]
Well they are not building the house for you. So since the house isn't even built yet, you could give them a chance to "make this right" and basically saying "Look I can't live in an illegal/unsafe room in the new house so either make this room a legal bedroom, make me a different offer or let's talk about extending my lease in this place until the new place is built and then I will move on."
They will not want to have to fill your room in a house they are going to want to move into. You said you're a good tenant. You have more negotiating room here than you think. The issue with an illegal room isn't just safety (though that is the big one) but that if your landlords are discovered you might have to move at some point in the future in a hurry which is super inconvenient.
If it were me I'd be consulting wit some tenant's rights groups to see what your options are and in the meantime put them off because they can't really make you sign a new lease NOWNOW NOW as much as that might be convenient for them.
posted by jessamyn at 2:09 PM on March 7, 2016 [17 favorites]
Emphasizing the safety issues.
Boston is contending with this pretty heavily. There was a terrible case a few years ago, and unfortunately, it hasn't led to nearly as much action as it should have.
Don't move into or live anywhere without at least two egresses.
Craig's List is honestly the best place to start a search for an apartment, or talk to friends and coworkers about reputable brokers in your area who may be able to point you in the right direction. Emphasis on reputable.
posted by zizzle at 2:10 PM on March 7, 2016 [2 favorites]
Boston is contending with this pretty heavily. There was a terrible case a few years ago, and unfortunately, it hasn't led to nearly as much action as it should have.
Don't move into or live anywhere without at least two egresses.
Craig's List is honestly the best place to start a search for an apartment, or talk to friends and coworkers about reputable brokers in your area who may be able to point you in the right direction. Emphasis on reputable.
posted by zizzle at 2:10 PM on March 7, 2016 [2 favorites]
Is this the same landlord who rented you the illegal bedroom you were living in last year? I think so because everyone involved is still Deaf.
I know you think these guys are your friends, but they're exploiting you and they've been exploiting you for years. They've never rented you a legal space, and I don't think this weird lease with a mandatory move is necessarily legal either.
Is there a reason why this room won't have a window? Does it not have an external wall? I don't understand why if it's the "middle room" the other two bedrooms in the basement will have windows and this one won't.
One option is to play hardball. They started it with their "our way or the highway" attitude. Tell them that you don't think this is legal. See their reaction. Hint that if they don't build a window in this room you're worried someone might see the room and report them to DC’s Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs. It'll be cheaper now to build the unit with a window than to face fines down the road.
Another option is to move. If you're willing to face a longer commute there must be somewhere in the DC area you can rent a room for < $900. Look seriously into that option -- I think you'll be happier living somewhere without that people than you think.
posted by crazy with stars at 2:11 PM on March 7, 2016 [12 favorites]
I know you think these guys are your friends, but they're exploiting you and they've been exploiting you for years. They've never rented you a legal space, and I don't think this weird lease with a mandatory move is necessarily legal either.
Is there a reason why this room won't have a window? Does it not have an external wall? I don't understand why if it's the "middle room" the other two bedrooms in the basement will have windows and this one won't.
One option is to play hardball. They started it with their "our way or the highway" attitude. Tell them that you don't think this is legal. See their reaction. Hint that if they don't build a window in this room you're worried someone might see the room and report them to DC’s Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs. It'll be cheaper now to build the unit with a window than to face fines down the road.
Another option is to move. If you're willing to face a longer commute there must be somewhere in the DC area you can rent a room for < $900. Look seriously into that option -- I think you'll be happier living somewhere without that people than you think.
posted by crazy with stars at 2:11 PM on March 7, 2016 [12 favorites]
Basement apartments in general are pretty unpleasant. If you have any potential for flooding in the area, there goes all your stuff (ask me how I know). I think you need to tell them no, unless you see new plans that include a window. Who doesn't put in a window if they're building new? That's just crazy. Even a "den" would be improved with a window. It would cost them a tiny amount in architect's fees and the additional cost of...a window. That's it. It's not like the house is already built and requires remodeling.
Tell them no, and tell them that you'd be happy to stay on a month-to-month basis until you find something.
(Also, they're charging A LOT for a 2 bed/2 bath apartment (which your new one would be) at $2850. Sounds like you renters will be covering the entire mortgage. Get out. They are taking advantage.)
posted by clone boulevard at 2:14 PM on March 7, 2016
Tell them no, and tell them that you'd be happy to stay on a month-to-month basis until you find something.
(Also, they're charging A LOT for a 2 bed/2 bath apartment (which your new one would be) at $2850. Sounds like you renters will be covering the entire mortgage. Get out. They are taking advantage.)
posted by clone boulevard at 2:14 PM on March 7, 2016
Response by poster: A window can't be added because it's a townhouse-style house. The walls meet the next house on both sides.
posted by dubious_dude at 2:14 PM on March 7, 2016
posted by dubious_dude at 2:14 PM on March 7, 2016
I am a landlord, although I am not your landlord, and while I do my best to be pleasant to my tenant, I'm not her friend. LL-tenant relations are first and foremost about business, and business entails paying attention to the building codes. If your LL is not paying attention to said codes, or is deliberately trying to mislead the code enforcement office, then your LL is not your friend. Especially because egress windows are about you not dying in a fire. If you want to be charitable (all LLs make mistakes), then gently point out that the proposed room is illegal, stand your ground, and see if they suddenly discover the error of their ways. Otherwise, hie thee to Craigslist.
posted by thomas j wise at 2:18 PM on March 7, 2016 [11 favorites]
posted by thomas j wise at 2:18 PM on March 7, 2016 [11 favorites]
dubious_dude: "A window can't be added because it's a townhouse-style house. The walls meet the next house on both sides."
So something like this, maybe?
I don't really see how both bedroom #1 and bedroom #2 can have a window if it's built into a hill, but this is the only layout I can think of that seems to fit what you've been saying.
posted by crazy with stars at 2:48 PM on March 7, 2016
So something like this, maybe?
----window------------- | | | | | Bedroom #1 | | w/bath | t | | t o --------------- -----| o w | | | w n | | | n h | “Den” | h o | | | o u | | | u s ------------- -- --| s e | | | | e | | |bath| |Bedroom #2 | | | | | | | | | | ----window-------------
I don't really see how both bedroom #1 and bedroom #2 can have a window if it's built into a hill, but this is the only layout I can think of that seems to fit what you've been saying.
posted by crazy with stars at 2:48 PM on March 7, 2016
Response by poster: @crazy with stars. About right. The hill goes downward, so there will be windows on both sides, but there may be a small "wall" for the front basement window (#2) as it'll be underground but still visible to the street. I hope that makes sense.
posted by dubious_dude at 2:57 PM on March 7, 2016
posted by dubious_dude at 2:57 PM on March 7, 2016
Apart from the safety issue mentioned above, living without a window can seriously damage both your mental health and your physical health. Lack of daylight and fresh air can lead to depression, respiratory issues and even cancer.
It looks like your landlord is getting an amateur (probably the contractor or themselves) to design the house. Normally, you will gather the bathrooms, closet-space, and maybe a galley kitchen in the central area together with the stairs, not only so all living spaces can have access to the outside, but also because it makes sense and better economy to gather stairs, circulation space, plumbing and ventilation around a central core.
An other issue is the size of the room. I have no idea about the rules for room sizes, but where I live, your current room would be on the edge of a legal room size, but permitted because it is old. In a new building, an even smaller room would be both illegal to build and to rent. And wow, those prices are wild, but that's the way it is everywhere.
Personally, I have chosen to live in a "sketchy area" and own a car which is old and small but looks respectable. It turns out my area is much safer than I thought, everyone in my building is a working professional and I can afford good food and going places on holidays.
posted by mumimor at 3:05 PM on March 7, 2016 [1 favorite]
It looks like your landlord is getting an amateur (probably the contractor or themselves) to design the house. Normally, you will gather the bathrooms, closet-space, and maybe a galley kitchen in the central area together with the stairs, not only so all living spaces can have access to the outside, but also because it makes sense and better economy to gather stairs, circulation space, plumbing and ventilation around a central core.
An other issue is the size of the room. I have no idea about the rules for room sizes, but where I live, your current room would be on the edge of a legal room size, but permitted because it is old. In a new building, an even smaller room would be both illegal to build and to rent. And wow, those prices are wild, but that's the way it is everywhere.
Personally, I have chosen to live in a "sketchy area" and own a car which is old and small but looks respectable. It turns out my area is much safer than I thought, everyone in my building is a working professional and I can afford good food and going places on holidays.
posted by mumimor at 3:05 PM on March 7, 2016 [1 favorite]
You could say yes now in order to keep your current room, and then if they do actually get the new place constructed before that new lease runs out -- 5/17, right? -- you could say, "Oops, I just noticed this isn't a legal bedroom and you can't legally rent it to me, so let's just call it equal and I will move elsewhere, or you can let me stay in this current room until the lease expires." That would give you more breathing room.
posted by BlahLaLa at 3:16 PM on March 7, 2016 [6 favorites]
posted by BlahLaLa at 3:16 PM on March 7, 2016 [6 favorites]
I may be missing something, but is there a reason you can't stay in your current arrangement? Does it have to be new room vs. finding another place to live, or can you stay in your current (if somewhat less than desirable) living situation?
posted by bluloo at 3:25 PM on March 7, 2016
posted by bluloo at 3:25 PM on March 7, 2016
Response by poster: @bluloo - I did mention that upthread, although it can be easy to miss, given the amount of replies since then.
"As for why I can't stay where I am - once the new house is built up, my landlords plan to either sell the existing house or rent it out to a family. They plan to do that right after the new house is completed and approved for occupancy." (as in, sometime this fall, if all goes on time)
posted by dubious_dude at 3:38 PM on March 7, 2016
"As for why I can't stay where I am - once the new house is built up, my landlords plan to either sell the existing house or rent it out to a family. They plan to do that right after the new house is completed and approved for occupancy." (as in, sometime this fall, if all goes on time)
posted by dubious_dude at 3:38 PM on March 7, 2016
Response by poster: Sorry for the threadsit, but I just reviewed the lease my landlords sent to me for review (which I haven't signed yet), and it clearly says "middle bedroom" (bolding mine) despite the layout map specifying it as a den in text (the two other bedrooms have "bedroom" but it's "den" for mine (and it not having a window unlike DC law specifies, apparently). Would that help my case?
posted by dubious_dude at 3:47 PM on March 7, 2016
posted by dubious_dude at 3:47 PM on March 7, 2016
It's in the landlords' best interest to change their plans, not just to keep you as a tenant, but as a long-term return on their investment, because that space will never bring in money. A windowless room won't just be illegal for you, it's illegal for anyone, and they won't be able to get as much rent from the new building as they're currently planning for.
So that's a point for bringing this up now, and their small investment in changing plans will pay off. There's the possibility that this will work out for you, but could also turn more expensive, and you should continue to look elsewhere.
posted by sageleaf at 3:47 PM on March 7, 2016 [2 favorites]
So that's a point for bringing this up now, and their small investment in changing plans will pay off. There's the possibility that this will work out for you, but could also turn more expensive, and you should continue to look elsewhere.
posted by sageleaf at 3:47 PM on March 7, 2016 [2 favorites]
I think you should shop around for another living situation. See what (and who) is out there! You keep settling for suboptimal housing and I don't know if it's fear of the unknown or what, but I bet you could find another roommate situation that suits you better and is not a scary fire hazard. Don't constrain yourself by artificial limitations.
posted by stowaway at 3:48 PM on March 7, 2016 [4 favorites]
posted by stowaway at 3:48 PM on March 7, 2016 [4 favorites]
A windowless room isn't "likely to be unsafe", it's just less safe than a room with a window. Building codes are about reducing potential risk, not insuring or guaranteeing safety. People sleep in windowless rooms all the time without harm and people die or are injured in rooms with windows, probably with a higher rate of occurrence.
And no one's implying they're doing this on purpose to you. They're just looking to maximise potential income from the property. Again the "Den" is there to get an approved building permit, not as a means to circumvent rental laws. A drawing with a room that says "Den" is no defence for breaking rental laws whatsoever, and wouldn't even be considered.
posted by humboldt32 at 4:02 PM on March 7, 2016
And no one's implying they're doing this on purpose to you. They're just looking to maximise potential income from the property. Again the "Den" is there to get an approved building permit, not as a means to circumvent rental laws. A drawing with a room that says "Den" is no defence for breaking rental laws whatsoever, and wouldn't even be considered.
posted by humboldt32 at 4:02 PM on March 7, 2016
mumimor: "An other issue is the size of the room. I have no idea about the rules for room sizes, but where I live, your current room would be on the edge of a legal room size, but permitted because it is old. In a new building, an even smaller room would be both illegal to build and to rent. And wow, those prices are wild, but that's the way it is everywhere. "
Ah yes this is a good point too, but the room is just barely big enough to be a bedroom in DC. 9x8'4" = 75 sqft, and the minimum is 70. Still needs a window though so kinda moot.
§ 14-402 OCCUPANCY REQUIREMENTS:
402.2. Each room used for sleeping purposes by not more than one (1) occupant shall be a habitable room containing at least seventy square feet (70 ft.2) of habitable room area.
posted by crazy with stars at 4:17 PM on March 7, 2016
Ah yes this is a good point too, but the room is just barely big enough to be a bedroom in DC. 9x8'4" = 75 sqft, and the minimum is 70. Still needs a window though so kinda moot.
§ 14-402 OCCUPANCY REQUIREMENTS:
402.2. Each room used for sleeping purposes by not more than one (1) occupant shall be a habitable room containing at least seventy square feet (70 ft.2) of habitable room area.
posted by crazy with stars at 4:17 PM on March 7, 2016
Again the "Den" is there to get an approved building permit, not as a means to circumvent rental laws.
Of course it's a means of circumventing rental laws. If they were honest about what they intended to do with it, the design wouldn't be approved.
And no one's implying they're doing this on purpose to you. They're just looking to maximise potential income from the property.
Ignorance of basic applicable law and safety principles that might get in the way of "maximizing income" is rarely coincidental.
posted by praemunire at 4:56 PM on March 7, 2016 [7 favorites]
Of course it's a means of circumventing rental laws. If they were honest about what they intended to do with it, the design wouldn't be approved.
And no one's implying they're doing this on purpose to you. They're just looking to maximise potential income from the property.
Ignorance of basic applicable law and safety principles that might get in the way of "maximizing income" is rarely coincidental.
posted by praemunire at 4:56 PM on March 7, 2016 [7 favorites]
I honestly didn't think of that, and I'm really hoping my landlords didn't think of that, either, because they are my friends, and I would hate to think they are doing this intentionally without regard for my safety and well-being
Gosh... dubious_dude, I remember a lot of your previous questions and I remember a pattern of people taking advantage of you. I think that is happening here. But look, this is great:
I'm feeling a bit rushed on this
they said making any changes would require an architect's fee.
landlords wanting to know like right now about my final decision, despite the previously-stated decision deadline of 3/31
I also want to avoid being manipulated when airing any concerns I have, by being told "well, you're getting a good deal! We can price the room higher."
You have spotted a lot of stuff and I think you are correctly noticing a pattern. What I think is happening is that the landlords know that you cannot rent a windowless room as a bedroom legally, yet they want to do it anyway because they want the extra money, and the way they see doing that is finding someone vulnerable who can be pressured into accepting the situation and not sticking up for themselves. Someone they can take advantage of, in other words.
I want to point out all the things you identified which are *pressuring tactics* to make it more difficult for you to assert your own boundaries. The deadline, the threat of rent being raised even higher, the 'take it or leave it' attitude, all serve to tell you that you don't actually have the right to negotiate. All of these slant things in the landlord's direction, meaning they get what they want and you don't get what you want. This is not how a friend behaves! Friends help each other, not take advantage of them. The fact that they are calling it a den on the plans means they are well aware that they are offering you a 'non-bedroom', i.e. that they know they are taking advantage of you. This does not seem like a healthy situation to me. Rather it sounds toxic.
I recognize this is a complicated situation, but I think that you are best off leaving this behind. I lived in a basement room once in which the windows were boarded up and I got no light at all and it drove me mad, and that was only for a few months. Living alone is so amazing, I know it will be difficult and it will be tricky financially, but maybe it's not as insurmountable as it appears, and the benefits to one's mental health are tremendous.
posted by PercussivePaul at 4:58 PM on March 7, 2016 [16 favorites]
Gosh... dubious_dude, I remember a lot of your previous questions and I remember a pattern of people taking advantage of you. I think that is happening here. But look, this is great:
I'm feeling a bit rushed on this
they said making any changes would require an architect's fee.
landlords wanting to know like right now about my final decision, despite the previously-stated decision deadline of 3/31
I also want to avoid being manipulated when airing any concerns I have, by being told "well, you're getting a good deal! We can price the room higher."
You have spotted a lot of stuff and I think you are correctly noticing a pattern. What I think is happening is that the landlords know that you cannot rent a windowless room as a bedroom legally, yet they want to do it anyway because they want the extra money, and the way they see doing that is finding someone vulnerable who can be pressured into accepting the situation and not sticking up for themselves. Someone they can take advantage of, in other words.
I want to point out all the things you identified which are *pressuring tactics* to make it more difficult for you to assert your own boundaries. The deadline, the threat of rent being raised even higher, the 'take it or leave it' attitude, all serve to tell you that you don't actually have the right to negotiate. All of these slant things in the landlord's direction, meaning they get what they want and you don't get what you want. This is not how a friend behaves! Friends help each other, not take advantage of them. The fact that they are calling it a den on the plans means they are well aware that they are offering you a 'non-bedroom', i.e. that they know they are taking advantage of you. This does not seem like a healthy situation to me. Rather it sounds toxic.
I recognize this is a complicated situation, but I think that you are best off leaving this behind. I lived in a basement room once in which the windows were boarded up and I got no light at all and it drove me mad, and that was only for a few months. Living alone is so amazing, I know it will be difficult and it will be tricky financially, but maybe it's not as insurmountable as it appears, and the benefits to one's mental health are tremendous.
posted by PercussivePaul at 4:58 PM on March 7, 2016 [16 favorites]
Response by poster: PercussivePaul - good points. Wanted to clarify on one thing - my landlords didn't threaten to raise the rent. That was more of my internal 'fear' - that if I'd complain, they'd say something like, "well, we can find someone else to pay for the room." Not sure if it's founded or not, but that's my main fear.
As for the landlords... they have been my friends for a long time. I've known one since '96, and another since '08. They both have been overall great to me, giving me good deals on my rent ($500 vs. $550 for example) and gave me rides, etc. to and from the grocery store, as well as giving surprise birthday cake to tenants (although they stopped doing that because it was getting old and predictable). I'm not defending them by any means; just kind of would feel surprised if they were genuinely taking advantage of me/my vulnerability. Then again, people can surprise you, I guess.
posted by dubious_dude at 5:12 PM on March 7, 2016
As for the landlords... they have been my friends for a long time. I've known one since '96, and another since '08. They both have been overall great to me, giving me good deals on my rent ($500 vs. $550 for example) and gave me rides, etc. to and from the grocery store, as well as giving surprise birthday cake to tenants (although they stopped doing that because it was getting old and predictable). I'm not defending them by any means; just kind of would feel surprised if they were genuinely taking advantage of me/my vulnerability. Then again, people can surprise you, I guess.
posted by dubious_dude at 5:12 PM on March 7, 2016
I'm not defending them by any means; just kind of would feel surprised if they were genuinely taking advantage of me/my vulnerability. Then again, people can surprise you, I guess.
It's somewhat possible that they're ignorant of the fact that it's illegal to rent a room with no egress in case of fire. Or that they thing they're doing you a solid by offering you a cheap room, even though it's not kosher.
Even so...pass.
posted by Ruthless Bunny at 5:31 PM on March 7, 2016 [1 favorite]
It's somewhat possible that they're ignorant of the fact that it's illegal to rent a room with no egress in case of fire. Or that they thing they're doing you a solid by offering you a cheap room, even though it's not kosher.
Even so...pass.
posted by Ruthless Bunny at 5:31 PM on March 7, 2016 [1 favorite]
How would you recommend I go about searching for another place?
Craigslist is an obvious choice. Check there for roommates and, if rooming with other Deaf people is important to you, create a post to find someone who is also looking for a roommate and a new apartment.
Also, go to Gallaudet's campus and see if anyone has posted anything about looking for a roommate (if you're open to rooming with a college student) And, check your local Deaf community bulletin boards, Meetups, etc and ask around.
posted by vivzan at 5:44 PM on March 7, 2016 [1 favorite]
Craigslist is an obvious choice. Check there for roommates and, if rooming with other Deaf people is important to you, create a post to find someone who is also looking for a roommate and a new apartment.
Also, go to Gallaudet's campus and see if anyone has posted anything about looking for a roommate (if you're open to rooming with a college student) And, check your local Deaf community bulletin boards, Meetups, etc and ask around.
posted by vivzan at 5:44 PM on March 7, 2016 [1 favorite]
One more thing: it's ok to part ways with your friends in regards to the landlord/tenant relationship and still remain friends. The friendship doesn't have to end and you don't have to make things adversarial (you're trying to make me live in an illegal room and die in a fire, you greedy bastards!) but just, "thanks, a room with a window is important to me. Loved living here and thank you for everything but I'm going to find another place."
posted by vivzan at 5:48 PM on March 7, 2016 [10 favorites]
posted by vivzan at 5:48 PM on March 7, 2016 [10 favorites]
You say you can't find a studio in your budget range, but surely you can find a room in a house (another roommate situation) for under $900 (your stated budget).
I think a windowless room would be a nightmare. Look on Craig's List for a room in a shared house.
posted by bearette at 6:16 PM on March 7, 2016 [1 favorite]
I think a windowless room would be a nightmare. Look on Craig's List for a room in a shared house.
posted by bearette at 6:16 PM on March 7, 2016 [1 favorite]
Sorry, just noticed the part about having a bathroom to yourself being important. There may be some roommate situations where you'd have a bathroom to yourself, or some where a bathroom wasn't used often because another housemate isn't home much.
I think it's definitely worth looking.
posted by bearette at 6:18 PM on March 7, 2016
I think it's definitely worth looking.
posted by bearette at 6:18 PM on March 7, 2016
As for why I can't stay where I am - once the new house is built up, my landlords plan to either sell the existing house or rent it out to a family. They plan to do that right after the new house is completed and approved for occupancy.
So they want to kick you out so they can rent to someone else? Or maybe-ish sell the house? There are specific laws about reasons for eviction, and I don't think their reasons qualify.
And they want to increase your rent 30% for an illegal room?
These people aren't acting like your friends. At all.
I think you should contact the Office of the Tenant Advocate, or at least read the tenant survival guide they provide.
posted by zennie at 12:06 AM on March 8, 2016 [4 favorites]
So they want to kick you out so they can rent to someone else? Or maybe-ish sell the house? There are specific laws about reasons for eviction, and I don't think their reasons qualify.
And they want to increase your rent 30% for an illegal room?
These people aren't acting like your friends. At all.
I think you should contact the Office of the Tenant Advocate, or at least read the tenant survival guide they provide.
posted by zennie at 12:06 AM on March 8, 2016 [4 favorites]
Ummm, so coming at this from a slightly different perspective: your rent right now is amazing for DC. So a few options I see:
1. Maybe stay in your current situation as long as you can (with the $500 rent) but pretend that you are paying $800 rent by socking away $300 each month into savings (this will also get you accustomed to a decrease in disposable income). Then when this "changeover" is supposed to take place, just craigslist a room in a house elsewhere. You can probably get something with its own bathroom closer to Ivy City?
2. Go to the Office of the Tenant Advocate and find out your rights. DC has really strict laws protecting tenants.
3. Just take the $650 room because CHEAP RENT, and hang out in the living room a lot.
4. Move to Baltimore, live like a king on the same amount of money, commute by MARC train to work every day.
posted by aaanastasia at 2:04 AM on March 8, 2016 [3 favorites]
1. Maybe stay in your current situation as long as you can (with the $500 rent) but pretend that you are paying $800 rent by socking away $300 each month into savings (this will also get you accustomed to a decrease in disposable income). Then when this "changeover" is supposed to take place, just craigslist a room in a house elsewhere. You can probably get something with its own bathroom closer to Ivy City?
2. Go to the Office of the Tenant Advocate and find out your rights. DC has really strict laws protecting tenants.
3. Just take the $650 room because CHEAP RENT, and hang out in the living room a lot.
4. Move to Baltimore, live like a king on the same amount of money, commute by MARC train to work every day.
posted by aaanastasia at 2:04 AM on March 8, 2016 [3 favorites]
Maybe stay in your current situation as long as you can (with the $500 rent)
That's the thing though. OP may have the right to stay in the current room at something close to current rent indefinitely (unless/until the landlords meet the legal stipulations). At minimum the landlords are being misleading about how much negotiating power OP has in the situation.
I do think "save up and get out" is a good strategy in the end though.
posted by zennie at 4:43 AM on March 8, 2016 [1 favorite]
That's the thing though. OP may have the right to stay in the current room at something close to current rent indefinitely (unless/until the landlords meet the legal stipulations). At minimum the landlords are being misleading about how much negotiating power OP has in the situation.
I do think "save up and get out" is a good strategy in the end though.
posted by zennie at 4:43 AM on March 8, 2016 [1 favorite]
Of course it's a means of circumventing rental laws. If they were honest about what they intended to do with it, the design wouldn't be approved.
As someone who's worked on both sides of the Planning counter, you're patently wrong. Submitting building plans has nothing to do with tenant/landlord rules and regulations, nor how the building will be used in the future. The building department isn't reviewing the owners renting behavior. They're reviewing whether or not the proposed construction meets building code requirements. You're speaking pie-in-the-sky speculation, I'm speaking pragmatically, based on direct experience.
posted by humboldt32 at 8:46 AM on March 8, 2016 [1 favorite]
As someone who's worked on both sides of the Planning counter, you're patently wrong. Submitting building plans has nothing to do with tenant/landlord rules and regulations, nor how the building will be used in the future. The building department isn't reviewing the owners renting behavior. They're reviewing whether or not the proposed construction meets building code requirements. You're speaking pie-in-the-sky speculation, I'm speaking pragmatically, based on direct experience.
posted by humboldt32 at 8:46 AM on March 8, 2016 [1 favorite]
I think it's strange they want you to commit 1/2 a year ahead of time. 30 days notice of "I'm leaving" has been standard for any place I've lived (rented rooms as well as apartments) and I've heard 60 is also common. Those are reasonable. It's unreasonable to make you commit to a $150 rent increase half a year ahead of time, especially when it sounds like nothing is too definite yet. I wouldn't sign anything.
Second of all, you're paying more for a smaller room and a windowless room. This does not seem a good deal. This is kind of getting more responsibility at work but taking a pay cut! Your rent is about to go up close to $2,000 a year. That's significant to me.
Maybe you don't spend much time in your bedroom other than sleeping, though. If that's the case and since you live in an expensive city, I would say having a safe place to sleep even if it's not ideal if pretty much what you're paying for so a worse deal isn't in and of itself a bad deal.
However I am firmly in the "find another place when your lease is up" camp because I checked your local Craigslist and there are 2,500 listings just under the rooms/rent. I'm sure you can find a better/cheaper/less screwey living space close enough to work.
In addition, looking over what's been said, it does seem like your landlords are doing something wonky and trying to get one over on you and/or whoever is the governing body when it comes to renting out rooms. Kind of like a "let's keep this cash only" plan but different.
You may also consider renting an apartment with a roommate instead of renting out a room in a house. The cost might come out the same and the living arrangement might suit you better.
Also this might just be where I live vs where you live, but 8x9 feet is extremely tiny. I've rented our rooms before and both of them were bigger. I live in a very small apartment right now, and my bedroom is bigger (and has a window). I can't imagine paying $650 plus utilities for a tiny windowless room. Check Craigslist for something better, please. Several people are bound to have a better deal than this.
posted by atinna at 9:32 AM on March 8, 2016
Second of all, you're paying more for a smaller room and a windowless room. This does not seem a good deal. This is kind of getting more responsibility at work but taking a pay cut! Your rent is about to go up close to $2,000 a year. That's significant to me.
Maybe you don't spend much time in your bedroom other than sleeping, though. If that's the case and since you live in an expensive city, I would say having a safe place to sleep even if it's not ideal if pretty much what you're paying for so a worse deal isn't in and of itself a bad deal.
However I am firmly in the "find another place when your lease is up" camp because I checked your local Craigslist and there are 2,500 listings just under the rooms/rent. I'm sure you can find a better/cheaper/less screwey living space close enough to work.
In addition, looking over what's been said, it does seem like your landlords are doing something wonky and trying to get one over on you and/or whoever is the governing body when it comes to renting out rooms. Kind of like a "let's keep this cash only" plan but different.
You may also consider renting an apartment with a roommate instead of renting out a room in a house. The cost might come out the same and the living arrangement might suit you better.
Also this might just be where I live vs where you live, but 8x9 feet is extremely tiny. I've rented our rooms before and both of them were bigger. I live in a very small apartment right now, and my bedroom is bigger (and has a window). I can't imagine paying $650 plus utilities for a tiny windowless room. Check Craigslist for something better, please. Several people are bound to have a better deal than this.
posted by atinna at 9:32 AM on March 8, 2016
Seriously, for people saying this proposed rent is too high: it's not in that market. Like I said above, I paid $500/month for a room without a window in a nearby neighborhood over 10 years ago and people told me I was getting a great deal. Now I know it was because my room was illegal, but still! OP, aaanastasia has great advice for you.
posted by lunasol at 4:15 PM on March 8, 2016
posted by lunasol at 4:15 PM on March 8, 2016
I totally get it - I live in Brooklyn! But still I've managed to pay undermarket rent a few times, most recently by splitting a 2br with a couple. Deals can be had, and they're not always even shady! And staying tied to landlords who seem super shady in order to hang onto great rent isn't necessarily the only way to do it.
posted by showbiz_liz at 4:24 PM on March 8, 2016 [1 favorite]
posted by showbiz_liz at 4:24 PM on March 8, 2016 [1 favorite]
You like them as roommates. The location is great for you. If you hate it, you can move out any time.
Yes, the den/bedroom thing is sketchy but sketchy is kind of the territory you get into at that budget in a place like DC. As far as sketchy goes, it gets a LOT worse.
Some people go crazy living in a room without a window but I wouldn't assume you're one of them. For me it made basically no difference in my life.
These are things that would make me think twice:
- your roommates are smokers (related to fire risk)
- your roommates are cheaping out on construction costs that would reduce fire risks
That's it. Seriously. If neither of those things are true, I say tell them you're taking the room and thank you.
Possibly the timeline will be much longer than they are imagining. You'll enjoy your current room and rent in the mean time. Possibly you'll hate living without a window. Then make plans to move out.
Leases aren't signed in blood and if they are renting a room that is not legally allowed to be rented as a bedroom, you pretty much have your get-out-of-the-lease free card right there whenever you want to use it. They can't exactly sue you for unpaid rent.
posted by Salamandrous at 5:41 PM on March 9, 2016 [1 favorite]
Yes, the den/bedroom thing is sketchy but sketchy is kind of the territory you get into at that budget in a place like DC. As far as sketchy goes, it gets a LOT worse.
Some people go crazy living in a room without a window but I wouldn't assume you're one of them. For me it made basically no difference in my life.
These are things that would make me think twice:
- your roommates are smokers (related to fire risk)
- your roommates are cheaping out on construction costs that would reduce fire risks
That's it. Seriously. If neither of those things are true, I say tell them you're taking the room and thank you.
Possibly the timeline will be much longer than they are imagining. You'll enjoy your current room and rent in the mean time. Possibly you'll hate living without a window. Then make plans to move out.
Leases aren't signed in blood and if they are renting a room that is not legally allowed to be rented as a bedroom, you pretty much have your get-out-of-the-lease free card right there whenever you want to use it. They can't exactly sue you for unpaid rent.
posted by Salamandrous at 5:41 PM on March 9, 2016 [1 favorite]
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This thread is closed to new comments.
A window is required in single-entry rooms to serve as an emergency egress. A second door could count as an emergency egress if that door connected directly to the exterior; otherwise a large window is required in each bedroom. This safety requirement is essential for all homes, and a bedroom may not be defined as such without it.
posted by showbiz_liz at 12:58 PM on March 7, 2016 [60 favorites]