My wife and I are Asian American and were tenant of Brickyard Apartments which is owned and managed by the Snyder Companies. In January and February, 2008, offensive cigarette smoke seeped into our apartment from a neighboring unit occupied by Caucasian tenants (proven by statements from certified home inspector and witnesses). We had to open the windows in the freezing winter (we wear sweaters and overcoats in our apartment).
Because of the smoke, my wife developed respiratory conditions and asthma. It was hard for her to breath in the smoking environment. My doctors stated that the smoke is detrimental to her health (in written statement). My doctors further advised that it was medically urgent to move out of the apartment (in written statement). We were forced to live in hotels (proven by hotel bills).
We complained to Brickyard/Snyder on multiple occasions and requested the reasonable accommodations necessary to allow us equal opportunity to use and enjoy the dwelling. Brickyard/Snyder declined each request.
On February 2, 2008, we went to Brickyard rental office to request accommodation and remedy. Its Caucasian assistance manager refused to grant reasonable accommodation stating, “Why do you xxx people have so many problems?” and words to that effect. In spite of the overt discrimination, we continued pursuing our fair housing rights. The Caucasian assistance manager became furious and ordered us to leave. As I was leaving the office, a Caucasian employee entered the office and stated. “If you say one more word, I’ll arrest you”. I asked “Do you have an arrest warrant?” “Are you the police?” He replied, “Believe me, I will arrest you.” I called 911 in fear that they may commit such crime as kidnapping. A police officer was dispatched by the 911 center to protect me and my wife.
Two days later, Brickyard/Snyder sent us a letter, which stated that it would not renew our lease when it expires. The letter also stated that we could no longer have access to the rental office and clubhouse nor could we continue to use exercise machines, pick up mail packages, and pay rent as other tenants do.
Later that month, Brickyard/Snyder refused our written request for regular apartment maintenance (proven by written document).
I believe that Brickyard/Snyder has breached the contract and violated the Fair Housing Act.
Pros: High-end
Cons: Hurt tenants through smoke and discrimination
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