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Options for Getting Repairs
Now you know what the landlord is supposed to do, but how do you get him to actually make those repairs? Most people’s first reaction is to file a complaint. In some (but not all) cities, the housing code enforcement office will send out an inspector. But a city bureaucracy can be very slow and frustrating.
There are a number of options that you can pursue if your landlord doesn’t make repairs. It is usually fastest and easiest to do Repair and Deduct. But it’s important that you follow the legal requirements for this. You cannot withhold rent if even if the landlord won’t make repairs. If you do, the landlord could evict you.
Your Options:
In addition to these options, there’s also the possibility of negotiation. Sometimes a landlord will be willing to work out a settlement agreement with you. For example, you’ll give him two months to do the work and he’ll give you 4 months free rent. If you need help negotiating this type of agreement you can get a free mediator at the Dispute Resolution Center. In King County call (206) 443-9603. When you’re negotiating be sure to ask for more than you think you can get, because you never get all that you ask for. And don’t lay all your cards on the table in the first move!
Posted: 12/07/04
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The Tenants Union cannot act as your attorney, and its staff members are not attorneys. The Tenants Union makes no representations, expressed or implied, that the information contained in or linked to its web site can or will be used or interpreted in any particular way by any governmental agency or court. As legal advice must be tailored to the specific circumstances of each case, and laws are constantly changing, nothing provided herein should be used as a substitute for the advice of competent counsel.