If your landlord refuses to do repairs, you can take legal action against them or withhold rent payments. It’s important to know your tenant rights and communicate with your landlord before taking any action.
As a tenant, it’s your right to live in a safe and well-maintained property. However, not all landlords fulfil their obligations towards maintenance and repairs. This can result in living in substandard conditions or even endanger the safety of the tenants.
If your landlord is not taking any action on your constant requests for repairs, you might be wondering what to do. Thankfully, there are legal options available to hold your landlord accountable. We will discuss the steps you can take to ensure your landlord makes necessary repairs and maintains your rental unit.
Understanding Your Rights
Know Your Rights As A Tenant
As a tenant, you have certain rights when it comes to repairs that need to be done in your rental property.
It’s important to understand these rights so that you can advocate for yourself and ensure that your landlord fulfils their responsibilities.
Some of your basic rights as a tenant include the right to:
- A safe and habitable living space
- Repairs and maintenance to keep the property in good condition
- Notifications about repairs that will be made in your unit
- Withholding rent if necessary repairs are not made in a timely manner and if permitted by state laws
Understanding Your Lease Agreement
Your lease agreement is a critical document that outlines your responsibilities as a tenant and your landlord’s responsibilities as a property owner.
Read through your lease agreement carefully to understand what kind of repairs your landlord is legally required to make.
It’s also wise to consider what kind of repairs you are required to make as a tenant. Some lease agreements specify that tenants are responsible for minor repairs, such as replacing light bulbs or unclogging drains.
Understanding Local And State Laws
Landlord-tenant laws can vary from state to state, so it’s important to check your local regulations to understand what rights you have as a tenant.
Some areas may have specific laws related to repairs and maintenance that apply to rental properties.
Be sure to do your research or consider consulting with a local legal professional for guidance.
Document The Problem
It’s crucial to document any repairs that need to be made to your rental property. This can include taking pictures and videos of the damage, writing down a detailed description of the problem, and noting the date and time that you made the observation.
Documentation will serve as evidence that repairs are needed and can be critical if your landlord is unresponsive or refuses to make the necessary repairs.
Taking Pictures And Videos Of The Damage
Visual documentation can be incredibly powerful, as it provides clear evidence of the damage that needs to be repaired.
Take pictures and videos from multiple angles, and make sure that they accurately reflect the extent of the damage. Be sure to store this documentation somewhere safe.
Writing Down A Detailed Description Of The Problem
Along with photographs and videos, it’s essential to provide a written description of the problem.
This can include information such as what caused the damage, what specific components are damaged, and how the damage is impacting your ability to use the property.
Be sure to date and sign this description.
Communicating With Your Landlord
It’s important to communicate with your landlord as soon as you notice a problem. You can send a letter or email outlining the issue and requesting repairs.
Be polite but firm, and include any relevant documentation (such as pictures and videos of the damage) to back up your claim.
Getting Their Attention In Writing
If your landlord is unresponsive, you may need to escalate your communication to get their attention.
Sending a certified letter can help demonstrate the seriousness of the situation, and create a paper trail that can be used in court if necessary.
Be sure to keep a copy of any written communication you send to your landlord.
Keeping Track Of All Communication
Make sure to document all communication you have with your landlord and any other relevant parties involved in the repair process, such as maintenance workers or property managers.
Be sure to keep a record of the date, time, and content of each interaction.
This documentation will be important if you need to take legal action.
Taking Action
When your landlord refuses to make necessary repairs, there are several courses of action you can take:
Legal Options
Taking legal action against your landlord shouldn’t be the first option, but it shouldn’t be overlooked either. You must know your legal rights, and if the landlord is in breach of contract, you must take legal action against them.
However, before taking legal action, make sure you have evidence of the failure to make repairs.
Filing A Complaint With Local And State Government Agencies
Complaining to government agencies is the best option when your landlord is dragging their feet with repairs. Depending on where you live, you can file a complaint with various local and state government agencies.
Some government agencies can provide support in getting the necessary repairs done or even force the landlord to do the repairs at their expense.
Contacting Legal Aid
When you don’t have the money to hire a lawyer, legal aid can be an option. Legal aid can offer legal advice, represent you in court and help you understand your legal rights as a tenant.
However, keep in mind that legal aid may have strict eligibility requirements.
Taking Legal Action Against Your Landlord
When nothing works, taking legal action may be your only option. You can file a lawsuit against your landlord in small claims court for repair costs or breach of contract.
Before you file a complaint, make sure you’ve given the landlord enough time to complete the repairs.
Repairing The Damage Yourself
If the landlord is not willing to make repairs, you can do it yourself.
However, before doing any repairs yourself, make sure you have permission from the landlord and keep all receipts and invoices.
When You Can’t-Wait Any Longer
When your landlord is taking too long to make critical repairs and you can’t wait any longer, it’s time to take matters into your own hands.
You can hire a contractor to make the necessary repairs. However, keep in mind that you may have to cover the costs.
Making Temporary Repairs
Making temporary repairs when your landlord can’t do it themselves can help mitigate the damage.
For example, you can patch up any holes to prevent water from coming in or use duct tape to fix leaky pipes.
Documenting Expenses And Invoices
When making repairs yourself, document all your expenses and keep invoices for all purchases.
You may be able to obtain a reimbursement from the landlord or use these expenses during any legal proceedings.
Remember: you have legal rights as a tenant, and your landlord has legal obligations too. If your landlord refuses to make repairs, there are options available to you.
Don’t let your landlord get away with neglecting their responsibilities.
Frequently Asked Questions For What To Do When Landlord Won’T Do Repairs
What Are My Options If My Landlord Won’t Do Repairs?
If your landlord won’t do repairs, you can file a complaint with your local housing authority or hire a lawyer to send a legal notice to your landlord.
Can I Withhold Rent If My Landlord Won’T Do Repairs?
You may be able to withhold rent if your landlord won’t do repairs, but only in some states and after following specific procedures. It’s best to consult with a lawyer or local housing authority before taking this action.
What Should I Do If My Landlord Still Doesn’t Do Repairs?
If your landlord still doesn’t do repairs, you can take legal action such as filing a lawsuit, seeking mediation, or filing a complaint with your state’s attorney general.
Can I Break My Lease If My Landlord Won’t Do Repairs?
In some cases, you may be able to break your lease if your landlord won’t do repairs, but it depends on your state’s laws. It’s best to consult with a lawyer before taking this action, as breaking a lease can have consequences.
Conclusion
As a tenant, a failure on the part of your landlord to carry out necessary repairs can be very frustrating and even affect your quality of life.
However, there are steps that you can take to get the repairs done.
First, ensure that you have notified your landlord in writing and provided adequate time for the repairs to be carried out.
If that does not work, you can pursue legal action or file a complaint with your local housing authority.
It is also essential to understand your rights as a tenant and keep records of any communication with your landlord.
Do not let your landlord’s negligence leave you at a disadvantage. Take action and get the repairs you are entitled to as a tenant.
Remember, it is your right to live in a safe and comfortable environment, and you should not compromise on that.
Reference: https://www.nh-law.co.uk/7-things-to-do-if-your-uk-landlord-is-not-doing-repairs