A question about landlord liability

[Mary Witt]

I am planning to rent out my unit in a mixed-use building. However, there is a commercial duct running behind my bedroom wall that I strongly suspect is being used in violation of the building code. I am over 90% confident that it is being misused as a grease duct, which it should not be. The potential consequence of this misuse is a grease fire that could potentially burn my unit or the entire building down.

I have reported this issue to the city multiple times, contacted my condo association, and sent emails to my alderman, but all my efforts have led to nothing. The complaint remains pending, or I receive no response.

As I try to rent out my place, I am concerned about my liability regarding this hazard, which is outside of my condo and beyond my control, yet poses a potential safety issue to my unit. Am I liable for this situation?  I feel so helpless in this situation and appreciate your opinion

[John Clark]

Quote from @Mary Witt:

I am planning to rent out my unit in a mixed-use building. However, there is a commercial duct running behind my bedroom wall that I strongly suspect is being used in violation of the building code. I am over 90% confident that it is being misused as a grease duct, which it should not be. The potential consequence of this misuse is a grease fire that could potentially burn my unit or the entire building down.

I have reported this issue to the city multiple times, contacted my condo association, and sent emails to my alderman, but all my efforts have led to nothing. The complaint remains pending, or I receive no response.

As I try to rent out my place, I am concerned about my liability regarding this hazard, which is outside of my condo and beyond my control, yet poses a potential safety issue to my unit. Am I liable for this situation?  I feel so helpless in this situation and appreciate your opinion

How detailed are the complaints? I personally would give all of my complaints and responses to prospective tenants, but whether that would protect you from liability I have no idea.


might want to contact your local newspaper about the lack of city response.