Leigh House — Attraction in Raleigh

WARNING: Surprising issues for a new building.

I lived here for 2 years, from when it was brand new until July of this year.

The apartment has nice amenities-the lobby is welcoming, the gym is fancy, and the pool (although typically crowded with people who seem to be just friends of residents) is nice. The old management (Rob-love that guy) was friendly and responsive.

But, sadly, amenities only go so far since I was spending most of my time in my apartment, where the issues really developed.

In the winter, my heating was not working and my apartment was frigid. Despite multiple requests and attempts at fixes over weeks, nothing seemed to work. The maintenance folks determined that they needed to flip a switch, but they could only access the units via the roof. Unfortunately, and due to incredible foresight, the roof was also not accessible when it was wet (being too dangerous), including when it was too cold. When it rains in the winter it can take a while to dry... Given the weather, this stretched on for some time before the roof could be reached (also on the coldest days, since it was a stretch where the rain was freezing on days where it was not raining, making the roof inaccessible).

As some other reviewers have pointed out, you could hear people talking in plain voice conversation from the apartment over.

Separately, and also related to cheap construction, I had a serious water leak into my bedroom (I was on the top floor) after a tropical storm. This was addressed, but I would not expect this in brand new construction.

These issues both occurred under the old management, but while the ownership of the buildings changed, the buildings are the same ones that were built, so I would not expect anything different moving forward. Perhaps not being on a top floor would alleviate the issues somewhat.

The maintenance folks were really nice, and they didn't build/design the place so I totally understand their need for safety regarding the roof, etc.

Additionally, pet owners should beware that the pet fee is a FEE not a DEPOSIT. It will not be used to cover damage from pets, nor will the pet rent. This is clearly outlined in the lease, but it is something to be well aware of to avoid surprises for those that aren't going through their lease in detail. I paid $50 a month for 2 years (2 small pets) and 2 $350 pet fees that totaled nearly $2,000 in additional pet charges while I lived in the unit, but I was charged for replacing the carpet in my bedroom upon move-out due to pet damage. I pointed out the carpet had dark spots at move in (again, odd, for new construction) to the previous management when I moved in. The new management claimed there was a strong urine odor and stains, etc. that made it obvious they needed to replace the carpet, and sent a picture showing stains on the bottom of the carpet. However, I, nor anyone who moved me out in my entire family noticed any stains or smell in the bedroom, making me wonder if the decision to replace it (knowing I had two pets) or the discovery of the stains occurred first. There were no pictures of the top of the carpet. I extensively cleaned any accidents (which did occur!), so I'm not surprised there were water marks from cleaning under the carpet. I am probably the neatest/cleanest person you could possibly meet so all of it seemed pretty absurd.

Future tenants should try and use the pet deposit portion of the lease (so it has some relation to pet damage and move-out liability) rather than the pet fee portion (although this is likely non negotiable). Otherwise it is just a flat tax on your pet(s), seemingly done just because it can be done (may be standard, but something to be aware of).

Have never had this many issues in an apartment building (and have lived in several others in the Raleigh area), paid this many fees, and then lost almost the entirety of my deposit at...

In hindsight, I believe there are better options available for the same price. My experience at this apartment complex left much to be desired. The building's construction quality was not ideal, leading to a chilly interior during winter and cabinet doors that frequently broke.

Unfortunately, the pool remained closed for most of the year, making the grills unavailable. Pest control efforts were not entirely effective, as cockroach problems persisted. The maintenance team seemed unresponsive to issues like the broken microwave surface light.

During events, the food provided for 20 people often fell short, with some of it seemingly disappearing with the staff.

The thin walls meant that we could hear outside noises, including early-morning garbage trucks.

One inconvenience was the absence of a callbox for guest access. Additionally, the security aspect left room for improvement, as gates were frequently left open.

I must also mention the inconvenience of the small and oddly sized freezer in the apartment. It was so impractical that it didn't properly accommodate frozen food, which often resulted in items not fitting and being squished or improperly stored. This just added to the list of frustrations in an already less-than-ideal living situation.

While it has a good location, I would not recommend this...

I just came back from visiting a friend here...and Ive visited him a few times now, and just seeing the things he has to go through living here has frustrated me so much, that I needed to post a review on his behalf. I am shocked at the amount of dog waste outside, the smells in the hallways, the amount of college tenants screaming in a drunken state outside, and how several doors are constantly unsecured (literally left unlocked at all times).

If you are a working professional, do not recommend, save your money and find peace elsewhere. If you're a college student, have at it, this is a college dorm environment more than anything. For the elderly that live here, I'm sorry you have to deal with all of this.... Poor living conditions all around.... Another reviewer mentioned management going downhill, never met them but I can only imagine seeing how the complex is operating. This is the epitome of "looks can be deceiving"

Edit - 05/05 - to the owner's response. Why would I spend the time calling and talking it through, when all you've done to address this, is copy and paste a response. Another reviewer commented on unsecured doors and its been months. How about trying to maintain and keep up with basic quality of life that you advertise. Start with the basics of...