Repairs, Maintenance and Landlord’s Entry Into Renter’s Apartment or House

As a landlord, you really should make repairs to the rented premises as soon as possible. Major issues, such as plumbing or heating problems should be addressed within twenty four (24) hours. For minor problems, you should address them within forty eight (48) hours.
In order for the landlord to enter the premises, he or she must provide notice to the tenants, usually twenty four (24) hours. However, the landlord is permitted to enter without notice in emergency situations such as fire or a serious water leak.

If the landlord does not make the necessary repairs, tenants have several options. Those options include depositing the rent into an escrow account set up by the court until the repairs are done; hiring someone to do the repairs and deducting that cost from the rent; paying less rent; calling the building department and having them come inspect and order the landlord to make the necessary repairs.

Landlords, your best bet is always to take care of repairs right away to avoid any potential problems. Also, keep the tenant(s) apprised of when and how the repairs will be made and the reason(s) for any delays.

As an aside, landlords may enter the rented premises upon at least twenty four (24) hours notice in order to show it to prospective renters or buyers.