Legal Question in Real Estate Law in Kansas

Must landlords reimburse for improvements?

My landlord was aware at the time of taking occupancy that I wished to do repairs and improvements. She gave me the o.k. but did not say she would or would not reimburse me. I assumed because of her approval that she would. Now she refuses to repay ANY of the monies spent. Does she have an legal obligation to repay me?


Asked on 3/14/00, 1:22 am

1 Answer from Attorneys
Alvin Lundgren Alvin R. Lundgren, L.C.

Re: Must landlords reimburse for improvements?

If the repairs are cosmetic only she probably is not obligated to reimburse you. If the repairs are substantial or structural or of a nature which without the repairs the building would not be habitable or up to building code she probably would be required to reimburse you. The legal question would probably be something like "It is unjust for her to have the benefit of the repairs without paying for them?" If you just painted and spackled, it could be considered as much for you as for her and by the end of your tenancy the repairs will not have much value - the place will need repainting. However, if you installed new plumbing and a new roof, then she would have the benefit of the repairs for many years to come.

Next time get in writing what is agreed.

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Answered on 3/23/00, 11:27 am


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