Tenants Sue Corporate Landlord Over Poor Living Conditions in Arkansas Apartments

Tenants at the Greenbriar Apartments in Hot Springs, Arkansas have initiated legal action against their corporate landlord, Michael Cotroneo, alleging poor living conditions and unfair practices. The tenants claim that Cotroneo was forcing them to pay for their own air conditioning units or have them removed from their apartments.

The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) has taken possession of the Greenbriar Apartments due to ongoing management issues and unresolved substandard conditions at the property. HUD officials and the Hot Springs city director recently met to discuss options for assisting past and present tenants, including helping them find new housing and obtain Section 8 vouchers.

In their lawsuit, the tenants accuse Cotroneo of fraud, breach of contract, and discrimination. They are seeking to hold the landlord accountable and ensure fair treatment. A jury trial is set to take place later this year. Cotroneo has countersued the tenants in response to their legal action.

Why this matters: This case highlights the challenges that tenants, especially those in low-income housing, often face when dealing with corporate landlords and substandard living conditions. The outcome of this lawsuit could have implications for tenant rights and the responsibilities of landlords in maintaining safe and habitable properties.

Tenant Staci Jameson, a plaintiff in the lawsuit, expressed her frustration with the situation, stating, "All we want is to be treated fairly and have a decent place to live. No one should have to put up with these conditions." As the legal battle unfolds, the tenants of Greenbriar Apartments hope to find resolution and improved living conditions through the court system and with the assistance of HUD.

Key Takeaways

• Tenants at Greenbriar Apartments in Arkansas sue landlord over poor living conditions.
• HUD takes possession of Greenbriar Apartments due to management issues and substandard conditions.
• Tenants accuse landlord of fraud, breach of contract, and discrimination in lawsuit.
• HUD and city officials discuss options to assist tenants, including housing vouchers.
• Lawsuit highlights challenges faced by low-income tenants with corporate landlords.