What are my rights as a tenant if my landlord is not making necessary repairs to my rental property in Pennsylvania?

As a tenant in Pennsylvania, you have the right to a safe and livable rental property. The landlord is responsible for ensuring that the rental property meets all safety and health codes, and for making necessary repairs to keep the property in good condition.

If your landlord is not making necessary repairs, you should first notify them in writing of the problem and request that they fix it. Keep a copy of the written notice for your records. If the repairs are not made within a reasonable time, you may have several options, including:

1. Withholding Rent: Pennsylvania law allows tenants to withhold rent if the landlord fails to make necessary repairs. However, there are strict procedures that must be followed, including giving the landlord written notice of the problem, allowing a reasonable time for the repairs to be made, and putting the rent money into an escrow account. It is recommended that you speak with an attorney before withholding rent to ensure that you follow all of the necessary steps.
2. Repair and Deduct: If the repairs are not made within a reasonable time, and the problem is not an emergency, you may be able to hire a professional to make the repairs and deduct the cost from your rent. Again, there are strict procedures that must be followed, including giving the landlord written notice of the problem, allowing a reasonable time for the repairs to be made, obtaining quotes for the repairs, and providing the landlord with a copy of the receipts. It is recommended that you speak with an attorney before attempting this option.
3. Terminate the Lease: If the repairs are not made within a reasonable time and the rental property is uninhabitable, you may have the right to terminate the lease and move out. However, it is recommended that you speak with an attorney before attempting this option to ensure that you follow all necessary legal procedures.

It is important to note that there are certain limitations and exceptions to these options. For example, if the repairs are the result of damage caused by the tenant, the tenant may be responsible for making the repairs. Additionally, if the rental property is not covered by housing codes, the landlord may not be required to make certain repairs.

If you are experiencing problems with your landlord, it is always recommended that you speak with an attorney who can provide you with specific legal advice based on your situation.