A landlord must make repairs to keep the rental property “up to code”. A tenant has different legal options to get needed repairs, but the tenant must provide notice and meet other requirements.

Tenants have the right to repair and deduct if their landlord refuses to make repairs to their unit. However, tenants must meet certain requirements, such as living in the home for at least 6 months, paying all rent and charges, and notifying the landlord in writing. The repairs must address issues related to habitability, sanitation, or security, and the cost cannot exceed certain limits based on the monthly rent.

Withholding your rent puts you at risk of your landlord filing an eviction lawsuit against you and therefore should be used as a last resort. Prior to withholding rent, notify your landlord in writing, documenting the communication. Keep records of emails, texts, and copies of letters sent. It is crucial to set aside the withheld rent, paying the landlord once the repair is completed. 

If the living conditions become unlivable, you have the right to move out if your landlord fails to address the issues. Notify the landlord in writing of the bad conditions and request repairs, document all communication, and take photos as evidence. When moving out, clean the premises, take photos, return the keys inside the rental unit, and refrain from providing your new address to the landlord.

Lead paint is dangerous and is still found in many homes. Tenants can request a lead inspection with or without a landlord’s permission.

If your rental home is condemned by the city or county, they have the authority to deem it unfit for habitation, leading to potential eviction. However, even in such cases, landlords are not allowed to resort to “self-help” eviction methods to remove tenants from the property.