What recourse does a tenant have if their landlord fails to make necessary repairs?

When a tenant faces issues with necessary repairs not being made by the landlord, notifying the landlord in writing is a crucial step. This form of communication serves as a formal record of the tenant's concerns and requests for repairs. It is an essential first action because it provides the landlord with an opportunity to address the problem. Many laws, including those in Oregon, require tenants to give landlords appropriate notice of repair issues, allowing them the chance to resolve the situation before the tenant takes further action.

Notifying the landlord is also beneficial for the tenant's legal standing should the situation escalate. If the landlord fails to respond or rectify the issue promptly after being notified in writing, the tenant may pursue other recourses, such as filing a complaint with local housing authorities or seeking legal remedies.

While a tenant may think about breaking the lease or withholding rent, these actions are typically considered last resorts and must be handled according to specific legal guidelines. Simply accepting the poor conditions is not constructive, as it ignores the tenant's rights under housing laws.