Can I cancel a signed apartment lease in Greece if the landlord hid mold and refuses repairs?
Lawyer Answers
SPANOS - FOUSKARINIS AND ASSOCIATES LAW FIRM
Papachatzis I Bairaktaris Law Firm
I.E Papaioannou & Associates | Rhodes Law Firm
Thank you for your message. We have reviewed the circumstances you described regarding the undisclosed mold and dampness in the leased property in Athens, as well as the landlord’s refusal to address the issue despite written notifications.
Under Greek tenancy law (Α να εν περιπτωσεις) the landlord is obliged to deliver and maintain the property in a condition suitable for its agreed use. Serious mold, dampness, and related health risks constitute a material defect and a breach of the landlord’s maintenance obligations.
Based on the facts provided, you may have the legal grounds to:
1) Terminate the lease for good cause due to the landlord’s failure to remedy a defect that significantly impacts habitability.
2) Seek the return of your security deposit, as the termination would not be attributable to any fault of yours.
3) Claim damages, which may include documented moving costs, temporary accommodation expenses, and any other losses directly resulting from the landlord’s breach.
4) Request a rent reduction for the period during which the property was unsuitable for use, if you remained in the premises.
To strengthen your position, we advise maintaining full documentation, including photographs, inspection reports (if available), written notices to the landlord, and any medical or health-related evidence. If the landlord continues to refuse corrective action, a formal legal notice may be appropriate as a next step.
If you would like, we can assist with drafting the formal notice or representing you in further negotiations or legal proceedings.
Please let us know how you wish to proceed.
Kind regards,
Esaias
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