What can a tenant legally do if the landlord fails to provide a habitable living environment?

In Pennsylvania, a tenant has the legal right to pursue legal action against a landlord who fails to provide a habitable living environment. A tenant can begin by filing a complaint with the local housing authority, which will investigate the complaint and can issue a notice of violation if the landlord is not meeting local standards of habitability. If the landlord fails to take corrective action, the tenant can bring an action in civil court against the landlord for a breach of the implied warranty of habitability. The implied warranty of habitability ensures that a landlord implicitly guarantees a tenant that the property is habitable and livable. This means that the landlord must provide certain living standards such as adequate heat, running water, and basic sanitation. If the landlord fails to provide these basic amenities, the tenant is entitled to take legal action. When filing a complaint in civil court, the tenant can ask for money damages to compensate for the cost of repairs or for personal pain and suffering due to the landlord’s neglect. The tenant may also ask for a court order to compel the landlord to make repairs or to make money available to the tenant to make the repairs. In addition to legal recourse, the tenant may be able to file a claim with their insurance company if their policy covers damage due to lack of habitability. It is important for tenants to remember that they have rights and resources available to them when landlords fail to provide a habitable living environment.

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What can a tenant legally do if the landlord fails to provide a habitable living environment?

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