What is a landlord’s duty to repair?

In North Carolina, a landlord has both a legal and contractual duty to make repairs to the rental property if they are necessary for habitability of the dwelling. This means the landlord must maintain the property in its condition at the time of the lease and fix any issues that arise throughout the duration of the lease. This includes keeping the premises in a fit and safe condition, making sure the property is free of lead paint and other health hazards, and replacing or repairing appliances, plumbing, and other amenities included in the rental agreement. The landlord is also obligated to make repairs according to the terms of the lease as well as any applicable state laws. For example, the landlord should repair any damage caused by their negligence or the negligence of other tenants—such as water damage from leaking pipes—in a timely manner. On the other hand, the tenant is responsible for any damages caused by their own negligence or those of their guests. In these cases, the landlord is not obligated to repair the damage or replace the items. However, if the landlord has promised to fix a particular issue at the start of the lease, they must honor that commitment. As long as the tenant notifies the landlord of the issue and provides reasonable access to the unit, the landlord must make the necessary repairs in a timely manner.

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What is a landlord’s duty to repair?

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