who do you contact if your landlord does not fix anything in the house your renting?

Answer 1

I had a similar problem!
My sewer line ruptured and went into my tub and they left it there until I called the board of health and city buisness. They didnt move until I called the renters rights board and a lawyer and they straightened up on that one.
Your lease and rights say they must fix it and make it in condition you moved in or you can break the lease. In Kansas you don't even have to pay rent until they do fix it. Check the lease and call around.

Answer 2

First off, it depends upon what needs repairing. The landlord is required to fix things that would render the property unsafe, unfit for human habitation, or waste utilities. Minor items such as a leaky faucet (unless you pay the water bill) are not reason to break your lease.

First step is to make sure that you notify the landlord properly. Most leases require written notification and I strongly recommend that you send that by Certified Mail, return receipt requested so that you'll have proof of mailing and delivery of your notice.

If you have an issue of safety of fitness for human habitation and the landlord refuses to make the repairs your next course of action will depend upon where you live. Most cities have a code compliance department that can force the landlord to make the repairs. If you live in an unincorporated area the county may have a similar office. If not, your only recourse at that point would be to either break the lease or sue the landlord.

In some jurisdictions you may be able to "repair and deduct" but make sure of the rules before you go that route. In other jurisdictions you have no such right and failure to pay the rent in full when due will be grounds for eviction even if you used the money for needed repairs. It may be possible to pay the rent into escrow at the local court until the landlord makes the repairs. Check with the court clerk's office to see if that's an option for you.

Don't waste your time with the BBB. They have no power to act. They'll just take your report and refer to it if there are any inquiries about your landlord in the future. The BBB might offer mediation services IF your landlord is a member but he's under no obligation to use those services even if he is a member.

Answer 3

tell him your going to contact the better business bureau.....that should do the trick, if they cant help you , they will def. refer you to somebody who will....