A tenant can’t withhold rent to force their landlord to fix a broken air conditioner or make a necessary repair, but they can take them to court to force a fix.

Submit your repair request in writing or email . This template is available for repair requests. CCLS Attorney Brandi Snow suggests that the tenant explain in detail how the problem is impacting them.

If a tenant is dealing with a burst pipe after a freeze, they must request that the repairs be made in writing, and that will trigger certain timeframes for the landlord to respond,” Karni said.

Anyone living in a storm damaged rental should make a request for repairs in writing. If things aren’t fixed in 7 days the tenant can exercise their right to withhold rent but there’s nothing ...