text: can i break a lease if the landlord will not fix anything or move his personal items from the residence? although, he did not promise this in the lease, he did promise verbally.  not one counter top in the kitchen is bolted to the shelves, and a baby grand piano, is laying sideways in the den?  i have lived in this mess since jan. 1, 2006, and it is now jun 20, 2006. i feel that i have gave him ample oppertunity to do the right thing. you have to do things in order.  send him a certified letter about the issues and document that you question if the house is tenable when a baby grand piano (not yours i presume) is obstructing room traffic and is occupying needed space.  give him 30 days to get it right and mention in letter that he will be in breach and you will refer this matter to attorney general for resolution.  second copies of what you sent to landlord to attorney general of the state you reside in as well!  do not hand the landlord this letter.  send it to his address certified (and keep receipts from postal service).    when he fails to respond to you, send a violation notice and tell him of your intent to vacate since the apartment is untenable and he fails to take action.  you have covered your behind at this point.  follow up with attorney general as well.