What is a landlord’s duty to repair?

In California, a landlord has a duty to repair and maintain the premises leased to the tenant. Generally, the landlord is obligated to make all repairs and do whatever is necessary to put and keep the premises in a fit and livable condition. This means that the landlord must make sure the property is safe and habitable, and that all systems are working. The law requires the landlord to maintain all electrical, plumbing, heating, cooling, and other systems in good working order. The landlord must also provide running water, hot water, and heat, if applicable. The landlord must also keep common areas, such as stairways, hallways, laundry rooms, and other areas safe and sanitary. The tenant can request repairs for any issues in the property, and the landlord must address the issue in a reasonable amount of time. If the landlord does not address the repairs in a reasonable amount of time, the tenant may be able to withhold rent and possibly sue the landlord. In some cases, a tenant may also be able to repair the issue on their own and then deduct the cost of repairs from the rent they owe. However, the tenant should never make repairs without the landlord’s permission and should always make sure to keep proof of the repairs, including receipts, for their records.

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What is a landlord’s duty to repair?

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