What to Do If Your Landlord Isn’t Making Repairs

Kevin Koehler
Jan 3
3 min read

As a tenant, you have a right to live in a safe and habitable home. When something breaks—like a leaky faucet, a broken heater, or faulty electrical system—it’s your landlord’s responsibility to address these issues in a timely manner. However, not every issue is necessarily a repair your landlord is obligated to fix. Understanding the difference between necessary repairs and simple inconveniences is crucial.

Necessary repairs are those that affect your health, safety, or the basic functionality of your home. These include problems like a lack of heat in winter, broken plumbing, or electrical hazards. On the other hand, issues like a squeaky door, minor cosmetic damage, or a slow-draining sink may be inconvenient but aren’t typically considered urgent or required by law to be addressed.

If you’re facing a legitimate repair issue that your landlord isn’t addressing, here’s a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the situation while staying within your legal rights.

1. Understand Your Lease and Local Laws

Before taking any action, review your lease agreement. Most leases outline the responsibilities of the landlord and tenant when it comes to maintenance and repairs.

Next, familiarize yourself with your local tenant rights. Many states and cities have specific laws requiring landlords to maintain properties in a livable condition, including heating, plumbing, and structural safety.

2. Document the Problem

Keep a detailed record of the issue. Take photos or videos showing the problem, especially if it’s worsening over time. Make sure your documentation includes timestamps to show when the issue began.

This evidence can be critical if you need to escalate the matter later.

3. Notify Your Landlord in Writing

Even if you’ve already told your landlord about the issue verbally, follow up with a written request. Email is a great way to ensure there’s a clear paper trail.

In your message:

Describe the problem in detail.
Include any photos or videos of the issue.
Specify when you first noticed the issue.
Request a timeline for the repair.

Here’s a sample message you could use:

Subject: Request for RepairsDear [Landlord’s Name],I hope this message finds you well. I wanted to bring to your attention an issue with [specific problem] in my unit, which I first noticed on [date]. I have attached photos for reference.Could you please let me know when this can be repaired? Thank you for addressing this matter promptly. Sincerely,[Your Name]

4. Follow Up Politely

If your landlord doesn’t respond within a reasonable timeframe, send a polite follow-up message. Sometimes, landlords may have overlooked your request or need a gentle nudge.

5. Involve Local Authorities if Necessary

If your landlord continues to ignore your repair requests, consider contacting your local housing authority or building department. Many municipalities have agencies that ensure rental properties meet safety and health standards.

These agencies can inspect the property and issue a violation notice to your landlord if necessary.

6. Consider Withholding Rent or Making Repairs Yourself (With Caution)

In some cases, tenants have the legal right to withhold rent or use their own funds for repairs and deduct the cost from their rent. However, these actions come with legal risks and should only be taken after careful consideration and consultation with an attorney or tenant advocacy group.

Make sure to:

Send written notice of your intentions.
Get quotes or invoices for the repair work.
Keep detailed records of your expenses.

7. Seek Legal Assistance

If the situation escalates and the repairs remain unaddressed, consult a tenant attorney. They can help you understand your rights and options based on your specific situation.

Final Thoughts

Dealing with a landlord who won’t make repairs can be frustrating, but it’s important to remain professional and follow the proper steps. Keeping detailed records and staying informed about your rights can go a long way in resolving the issue.

Remember, you have the right to a safe and habitable home. If your landlord isn’t fulfilling their responsibilities, don’t hesitate to take action.