What are the rights of a tenant if a landlord fails to make promised repairs?

In California, tenants have the right to have their landlord make necessary repairs on their rental property. If the landlord fails to make the promised repairs, a tenant has the right to take legal action. First, the tenant should document the repair problem, the date it was reported, and the landlord’s response. This may include taking pictures, keeping copies of emails or notes from conversations, or getting written notices or letters from the landlord. This can help strengthen the tenant’s case if the tenant chooses to take legal action. Second, the tenant should contact the landlord and make them aware of the issue. This should include a written notice highlighting the details of the problem and a timeline for when the repair should be completed. If the landlord still does not make the repair, the tenant can make the repair and then submit the cost to the landlord. If the cost of the repair is more than a month’s rent, the tenant has the right to withhold rent until the repair is completed. Finally, if the landlord still hasn’t made the repair, the tenant can take the landlord to small claims court. The court can order the landlord to make the repairs, or order the landlord to refund the cost of the repairs that the tenant made. Alternatively, the court can order the landlord to pay the tenant an amount for damages resulting from the landlord’s failure to make repairs.

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What are the rights of a tenant if a landlord fails to make promised repairs?

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