MEMPHIS, Tenn. — In the last few weeks, several Memphians in different apartment complexes reported not having basic utilities like functioning air conditioner. But many Memphians are also not aware of their rights as renters, such as being able to report violations.
Tenants who live at Brentwood Place apartments and a City of Memphis spokesperson confirmed that code enforcement has cited management for a second time in a week for not having working air conditioning.
Residents who have endured issues like Zack W, who didn't want to give his last full name, told ABC24 living conditions in his apartment have slighted changed since we reported on Monday that he didn't have working A.C.
Zack said on Tuesday the maintenance crew provided two portable air conditioning units as his only relief for the time being. He said he's aware of some of his renter's rights, but not all of them.
"I didn't know about 311," Zack said.
In Memphis, calling 311 will allow residents to submit service requests to the City of Memphis for problems such as potholes, abandoned homes, and housing concerns.
Under Tennessee state law, tenants have the legal right to live in a habitable unit that complies with fair housing regulations. They also have the right the right to contact the landlord to request repairs if needed.
Memphis Area Legal Services, Inc. CEO, Nicole Grida said they want to see renter's rights protected.
"We can guide you through that process, talk about what other options you may have, and ultimately discuss how we can remedy the situation," Grida said.
According to Grida, for those individuals living with sub-standard conditions, it's important to document issues with your landlord and follow up. She also said if nothing changes you are urged to contact Memphis Housing Fair Center.
"Those steps are critical in us being able to protect your rights because it's gonna show that the landlord not only is on notice but has been given every opportunity to remedy this situation and has failed to do so," she said.
Services are typically available for low-income families in Shelby, Lauderdale, Fayette, and Tipton Counties, according to Grida. She said some situations could escalate to environmental court or be handled through a simple phone call.
"Sometimes it could be writing a letter to the management company and letting them know hey you have this obligation, you're not fulfilling it, we like to see you take steps," Grida said. "Sometimes it's a phone call to do that very same thing."
For any renters with questions, Memphis Area Legal Services, Inc. will host a free legal advice clinic on Saturday, July 13 from 10am to noon at the Benjamin L. Hooks Central Library, 3030 Poplar Avenue, Memphis TN 38111.