The law states that a landlord has a duty to maintain a rental unit in a tenantable condition. This means that plumbing, wiring, and structural aspects of the building must be up to code. There must be no water leaking into the building when it rains. The unit must have working windows, window locks, dead bolt locks on the doors. In addition, the landlord must provide adequate heat and adequate garbage receptacles.
Some landlords refuse to undertake the needed repairs and improvements that make a unit tenantable, even after repeated requests from a tenant. In these situations, under the “Repair and Deduct” clause, the law allows the tenant to make the needed repairs, and then deduct the cost of those repairs from the rent.
Be Careful Making “Repair and Deduct” Improvements
If you fail to follow proper procedures in making “repair and deduct” improvements, it could result in an unlawful detainer action and eviction from your rental unit. Before making any repairs or improvements to your home, you should speak with a tenants’ rights attorney.
The good folks at the Legal Service Center can explain your rights, what you can and cannot do, and how to proceed in your case. Call us at (855) 775-5400 to make an appointment.
Protecting Your Rights and Your Home
Legal Service Center uses the law to protect the rights and homes of tenants in Orange County, Los Angeles County and throughout Southern California.
Legal Service Center can help you make the right decisions and take the actions needed to protect your rights and your home. For example, it might be best to petition the local rent control board for a rent reduction. In other circumstances, it may make sense to use the “Repair and Deduct” option.
Legal Service Center can inform you of your options and advise you on the best action to take.
