Advice on tenancy contracts - I need out of mine

Hi, I moved to HK in August and agreed to share with a new colleague, little did I know what a nightmare it would be. After 2 weeks we weren't getting on, there are issues that are unpleasant to live with.

We signed a 2 yr contract without realising that the notice period was outside of the 24 months. So in effect it is 24+2. We contacted the landlord to hand our notice in as we thought we could serve the 2 months notice, then all the hassle began. My health is suffering due to the stress I am under with the person I am sharing with.

I met with the landlord and asked her to reduce the contract, she offered 12+2 months, but then also told me I could leave asap if I was willing to lose the deposit. I said yes, I can't really afford to lose the money but I need out. 3 days later she retracted the offer!

My options are now agree to stay until the 14 months are up. Sub-let but I don't know where to start with that! She has agreed I can do that if I find new tenants. Or I feel like walking out. You don't know me, I am a law abiding person, I truly am, but I am so stressed with all of this.


Does anyone have any advice? Do landlords as a general rule take such action to court?


I am so confused I don't know what to do. HELP!

Hello,


If you send your details , concern and if possible a copy of your tenancy agreement to the Community Advice Bureau cab@cab.org.hk we can then forward your concern to a lawyer at the Free Legal Advice Scheme. Will will then forward his advice back to you.


Regards

Community Advice Bureau

Sounds dreadful. I was sitting here wondering how to help you then saw the above post from the CAB, and that looks like a wonderful opportunity to get some real, authoritative advice so hope you follow up on that.


It's really hard to walk away from a deposit if it's the normal one of two months plus a month's rent in advance. Sounds like the lease is in your name?


Just wondering if you've tried to discuss your concerns with your roommate. Perhaps he/she isn't aware that you are so upset about the situation. Is there a chance some of it can be resolved by airing your grievances and making some changes to whatever is so distressing you?


Perhaps your roommate is also unhappy and you could make some amicable arrangement about one or the other of you moving out and someone else moving in.


I hope something can be worked out one way or another for you soon. Let us know if you get some help from the CAB or if you still need advice.


Good luck! :)

Thanks so much for the supportive replies. I have tried many times to discuss this with the flammate and she becomes quite aggressive and begins shouting. I will contact the CAB. thank you again.

Please let us know what happens. It sounds like you're very distressed and I hope you can find a solution that works for you.