Carpet Replacement

[choviohoya]

I've been a resident in a 5 unit apartment building for the past 6 years. 3 weeks ago I asked my manager if I could get some new carpet. The carpet has not been changed since I moved in 6 yrs ago and is in terrible shape. The manager did look at the carpet and agreed that it does look really bad. The owners response was "We'll think about it but don't count on it". What can I do in this situation? I don't want to move but I will if I have to.

[Arron]

The only reason an owner could be required to change the carpet is if it is a health or safey hazard.  If it is frayed and you could trip, or if it is decomposing to the point of being airborn, you could try to force them to change it by reporting the problem to your local Code Enforcement agency and hope they cite the owner for a code violation.  However that approach won't get a very positive response from the owner.

If you enjoy your home and want to maintain a good relationship with the owner, offer a slight increase in rent OR offer to pay a portion of the cost of the carpeting(assuming that a local rent control ordinance does not prohibit this).  Working together as a team and developing a win-win solution will be better for everyone in the long run.  

Good luck!