Off Campus Living

TIPS FOR TENANTS

Getting Repairs

Your landlord is required to make repairs, regardless of what your lease or your landlord says.
You should get at least 68 degrees of heat daily during the cold months and when it is below 60 degrees in September and May.
Requests for repairs should be made in writing and should allow enough time to do the work. You can send requests by certified mail or with your rent. Keep copies. Take pictures.
If your landlord fails to provide heat or fails to make serious repairs you should file a complaint with the City Department of Licences and Inspections (215-686-2463).
The City may close your building if it has dangerous fire or structural fire hazards that are not promptly repaired.
If you are renting a place that is in poor condition you may be entitled to a reduction in your rent.
After you warn your landlord in writing and do not receive a response within a resonable amount of time. You can make small repairs yourself and deduct the cost from your rent.
If your landlord fails to make major repairs, you can withhold some of your rent in a seperate bank account. If you choose this option, send a certifed written warning first and be prepared to be taken to court.
You can move out before the end of your lease if your landlord fails to make necessary repairs. Again, you must send certifed written advance notice first.

REPRINTED WITH THE PERMISSION OF:

The Tenant Union Representative Network (TURN)