Question: Judge, does my landlord have to have a permit to rent out a room even though he is also my stepfather? Does an eviction notice have to be notarized and what can I do if it’s not? What can I do if my landlord won’t fix my bathroom sink or the a/c (we have no a/c at all)? Can I sue him for anything?

The Judge’s Answer: No. A landlord (whether a relation or not) does not need a permit to lease space. An eviction notice does not have to be notarized just signed by the landlord or an agent of the landlord. You may send your landlord notice to repair the premises and give him reasonable time to repair it. If he fails to repair it, you may repair the premises and sue him for the cost of repair or the court could reduce the amount of your rent until the repairs are made or award you money damages.