Springfield, MO asked in Elder Law and Landlord - Tenant for Missouri

Q: Can a disabled senior citizen be evicted because the home failed inspection on section 8?

I am in a home that has failed inspection every year for the same thing. Now they want me out so they can fix it and re-rent it. There is NO foundation under the house. I have lived here since 5/28/20. I have tried to find a place to live but can not due to the $$ for fees. I live on a very SMALL check eack month for disability. The house is not and WAS NOT safe to live in. The house is falling in literally. The floors are unsafe. The whole structure is bad. Housing stopped paying again May 31, 2023. I have continued to pay my portion every month except this month due to identity theft. The got into my bank account. I have no where to go and no one or no way to move my stuff out by the 30th. I was homeless before I got section 8 and moved in here, and now I am homeless again because they put me in here knowing it had no foundation and unsafe. I have filled out applications but just got an eviction show up since 2015 or 2016. Which there should not be 1 on there!!!

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1 Lawyer Answer
James L. Arrasmith
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Answered

A: In Missouri, landlords are obligated to provide safe and habitable housing. If a property repeatedly fails Section 8 inspections, it's an indication that the housing may not be safe or suitable for habitation. A tenant's eviction due to the landlord's failure to maintain the property could be seen as retaliatory, especially if the tenant has reported these issues.

Being disabled or a senior citizen may also provide additional protections against eviction. It's important to address any eviction notices immediately and consult with legal counsel. Many communities have legal aid services that can assist tenants, especially those in vulnerable situations. Given the complexity and urgency of your situation, I recommend reaching out to local resources and an attorney who can guide you further.

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