Right to Repair and Deduct

The Right to Repair and Deduct is a legal remedy that allows tenants to make necessary repairs to their rental unit and deduct the cost from their rent if the landlord fails to address the issues in a timely manner. This right is based on the principle that tenants should not be forced to live in unsafe or unhealthy conditions due to their landlord’s negligence. If a tenant notifies their landlord of a repair need and the landlord does not respond within a reasonable timeframe, the tenant may have the right to hire a professional to make the repairs and subtract the expense from their rent payment. However, the specific procedures and limitations for the Right to Repair and Deduct vary by state, and tenants should carefully follow the legal requirements to avoid potential disputes with their landlord.