What should I do if my landlord refuses to make repairs?

If your landlord refuses to make necessary repairs in Massachusetts, there are several steps you can take to protect your rights as a tenant. The first step is to check your lease or rental agreement and make sure your landlord is legally obligated to make the repairs as outlined in the contract. If so, you can formally and in writing request that your landlord fix the issue. Include a deadline to comply with your request and also keep a copy of your letter for your own records. The next step is to contact your local building inspector or your city or town hall to request a formal inspection of the premises. If the inspector finds that your landlord is responsible for making the repairs, they may issue an order for them to do so. If the landlord continues to refuse to make the repairs, you have the right to withhold a portion of your rent. Make sure to keep records of what repairs are needed, when the landlord was notified of the issue, and when the order was issued by the inspector. You may also have the option of withholding all of your rent and using it to make the repairs yourself. However, before making this decision, you should consult a lawyer to discuss the legal implications. Ultimately, if your landlord is unresponsive or unwilling to make the necessary repairs in Massachusetts, you can file a complaint in the local housing court to protect your rights. It is important to document all communication between yourself and your landlord so you can be prepared to present your case to the court.

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What should I do if my landlord refuses to make repairs?

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