As a tenant, it`s your responsibility to maintain the rental property you`re living in. However, you`re not responsible for major repairs or damages that occur due to normal wear and tear. Landlords are required to make those kinds of repairs.
The first step to getting repairs made is to put your request in writing. It`s important to have a record of your request and the landlord`s response in case you need to take legal action later on. Be specific about the issue, and include details like the date you noticed it and how it`s affecting your ability to live in the apartment.
Once you`ve made your request, the landlord should respond within a reasonable amount of time. This can vary depending on the issue, but generally, landlords are required to respond to repair requests within 24-48 hours. If the issue is urgent, like a gas leak or a broken window, landlords are required to respond immediately.
If your landlord doesn`t respond to your request or refuses to make the repair, you have a few options. One option is to contact your local housing authority or a tenant advocacy group for assistance. They can help you navigate the legal process and may even be able to negotiate with your landlord on your behalf.
Another option is to withhold rent until the repair is made. However, it`s important to follow the proper procedure for doing so. You must give your landlord written notice of the issue and the amount of rent you plan to withhold. You can then put that money into an escrow account until the repair is made.
Finally, if the issue is severe enough, you may be able to break your lease and move out. This is generally only an option if the issue is so severe that it makes the apartment uninhabitable, like if there`s extensive water damage or a mold problem.
In conclusion, as a tenant, it`s important to understand your rights when it comes to rental agreement repairs. Your landlord is required to make repairs for issues that are due to normal wear and tear, and you have options if they refuse to do so. By following the proper procedures and seeking assistance when needed, you can protect yourself and ensure that your apartment remains safe and habitable.