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What do I do if my landlord is refusing to make necessary repairs to my rental property in Pennsylvania?

As a lawyer, if your landlord is refusing to make necessary repairs to your rental property in Pennsylvania, you have legal options available to you.

Firstly, it is important to review the terms of your lease agreement with the landlord. Most lease agreements contain a provision that requires the landlord to maintain the premises in good repair and to make any needed repairs. If this is the case, you can provide written notice to the landlord requesting that specific repairs be made. It is recommended that this notice be sent via certified mail, return receipt requested, so that you have a record of the request.

If the landlord fails to make the repairs within a reasonable time after receiving your notice, you may have the right to withhold rent until the repairs are made. However, it is important to note that this should only be done after consulting with an attorney, and that there are limitations to the amount of rent that can be withheld.

Another option is to file a complaint with the local housing authority. This authority can investigate the condition of the rental property and order the landlord to make any necessary repairs. Additionally, if the housing authority deems the property to be uninhabitable, you may have the right to terminate your lease agreement without penalty.

If none of these options are successful in getting the landlord to make the necessary repairs, you may have the right to take legal action against the landlord to force them to make the repairs. This may include filing a lawsuit, or working with an attorney to negotiate a settlement or resolution of the dispute.

Overall, if your landlord is refusing to make necessary repairs to your rental property in Pennsylvania, it is important to take action to protect your rights as a tenant. Consult with an attorney to determine the best course of action for your situation, and be sure to keep detailed records of all communication with the landlord and any actions taken.