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

If your landlord refuses to make repairs in Montana, there are a few steps you can take to ensure that your unit meets health and safety standards. First, make a request in writing to your landlord for the repairs to be made. If your landlord does not respond or refuses to make the repairs, you may file a complaint with your local housing authority or health department. The department will then inspect the property and inform the landlord that repairs need to be made. If the landlord still refuses to make repairs, you may be able to apply for a rent abatement or a rent reduction based on the condition of your unit. You may also be able to sue your landlord for damages. If the conditions of your unit are deemed to be unsafe or a health hazard, you may be able to break your lease and vacate the premises without further penalty. Before making this decision, speak with a qualified legal professional to review your rights and responsibilities under Montana landlord-tenant law. Finally, if you decide to withhold rent, make sure to deposit your rent payment in a trust account. This will provide you with legal protection and further evidence of your attempts to get the landlord to make necessary repairs.

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