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

In Virginia, tenants have the right to live in safe, habitable dwellings and landlords are required to comply with state and local housing codes. If a landlord fails to make promised repairs, the tenant has a few options. First, the tenant can communicate directly with the landlord and document their discussions in writing. The tenant can also pursue the completion of repairs by withholding rent, having the repairs made and deducting the cost from their rent, placing their rent in an escrow account, or filing a complaint with a local housing agency. If the tenant has given the landlord appropriate notice and the landlord still fails to respond or make the necessary repairs, the tenant may also be able to terminate the lease and move out. In the event that the tenant has to move out because the landlord is in breach of their legal obligations, the tenant may be able to sue for damages. Finally, under Virginia law, a tenant also has the right to be notified of any foreclosure proceedings. This includes notification of the filing of a foreclosure action, service of the foreclosure complaint, and any proceedings leading up to a foreclosure sale. Tenants must be notified of their rights as a tenant before any eviction can occur.

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

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