Renters: What You Can Fix vs. Call Your Landlord
Usually your landlord’s job
California’s Attorney General lists what a landlord must provide, including: working plumbing with hot and cold water and sewage disposal; safe, working electrical wiring and lighting; heating; working smoke and carbon monoxide detectors; unbroken windows and doors with working locks; pest control; and repairs for hazards like visible mold or dampness. Massachusetts requires a unit that is safe, well-maintained and meets the State Sanitary Code (Mass. AG). In Texas, you can demand repair of any condition that materially affects physical health or safety (Texas AG). HUD-assisted residents have the right to timely repairs on request and a duty to report defects in building systems, fixtures and appliances (HUD).
Usually on you
Damage beyond normal wear and tear caused by you, household members or guests (Mass. AG; Texas AG). California’s AG says tenants must keep homes sanitary, use appliances as intended, and avoid damage. Texas law says a landlord generally doesn’t have to repair problems you caused (unless from normal wear and tear), and some leases assign certain repairs to the tenant in writing (Texas AG). Your lease may spell out more.
Safe quick fixes to try first
These don’t require opening walls or replacing fixtures; if they don’t work, report it:
- Clogged toilet – plunge and, if needed, a toilet auger.
- Running toilet – diagnose and report; ask before replacing tank parts.
- Tripped breaker – safe reset; report if it keeps tripping.
- GFCI won’t reset – check other GFCIs and reset; report if it won’t hold.
- Slow sink or tub drain – clean stopper and plunge.
How to ask for a repair
- Put it in writingFREE
Request repairs by text, email or letter and keep copies, plus photos or video of the problem (California AG). In Texas, certain remedies require a dated letter sent by certified or registered mail, and your rent must be current (Texas AG). - Give reasonable timeFREE
Texas law presumes seven days is a reasonable time for a diligent repair effort after notice (Texas AG). Other states differ. - Escalate if neededFREE
California suggests local code enforcement, building or health departments (or 211/311); Massachusetts tenants can ask the local board of health to inspect (California AG; Mass. AG). Retaliation for requesting repairs is prohibited in these states. - Get legal help before withholding rentFREE
California and Massachusetts both advise getting legal help before withholding rent; Texas says you can’t withhold rent for conditions that don’t materially affect health or safety.