Repairs to Rental Property

Caring for Rental Property

Both the tenant and the landlord are responsible for keeping rental property in good condition. The tenant must take care of the property day to day, keep things clean and prevent unnecessary damage. The landlord must keep the appliances, furnace, plumbing and other systems in good repair and make sure the property is safe and liveable.

Asking for Needed Repairs

If a property needs repair it is the tenant’s responsiblity to tell the landlord about the problem. Once the landlord knows about the problem, the tenant must give the landlord a reasonable amount of time to make the repair.

Withholding or Deducting Rent for Repairs

If the landlord does not does not make the repair within a reasonable amount of time, the tenant may withhold rent to make sure the landlord makes the repair or the tenant may make the repair. The tenant should notify the landlord in writing if they withhold rent or decide to make the repair. If the tenant decides to withhold rent for repairs, the money must be put in an escrow account and the amount should be reasonable and connected to the cost of the repair. If the tenant decides to make the repair, the cost of the repair can be deducted from rent. The tenant should notify the landlord of the cost of the repair before the repair is made and get more than one estimate if the project is complex or expensive. The tenant should give the landlord copies of any repair receipts and proof of payment.

For Informational Purposes Only:  This summary is provided for basic informational purposes only. It is not legal advice. For legal advice about your situation, you must talk to a lawyer.