Landlady's daughter:

Well, since this guy has lied to me before I have no reason to believe he is telling me one thing and planning to do another. So protecting myself with something in writing seems like a good idea.

I think the dangerous nature of this work means little to these workers. They do not even wear masks most of the time when kicking up all this dust. I have noted that local "lanscaping" companies also wear no protective gear when spreading herbicide and pesticide. I mean, that stuff is killing US as surely as it kills bugs and weeds, it just takes a lot longer.

I was surprised to hear the new landlord say he had decided against gutting my kitchen when I was there because "it's too much." I have a feeling he spoke to his lawyer and found out he is not really within his legal rights to do such a thing...or maybe it was a flash of compassion and sanity. Who knows?

Anyway THANK YOU so much for all the free advice, everyone! I will keep you posted.

Peg