How long do I give my landlord to fix something before I do it myself?

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How long do I give my landlord to fix something before I do it myself?

I have been trying to get my landlord to fix my oven for almost a month and she keeps putting it off or ignores my text messages. If I fix it myself do I have the right to take the cost out of the rent before I pay? Also, we have been six months and still haven’t signed a rental agreement. I have been trying the entire time we have been here to get something signed but she keeps ignoring me. What are my rights with this?

Asked on January 7, 2012 under Real Estate Law, Texas

Answers:

FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney

Answered 12 years ago | Contributor

If you have yet to sign a rental agreement, under the laws of pretty much all states in this country, you are on a month-to-month rental.

As to getting your oven fixed, I would call your landlord about the need for getting this appliance repaired and follow up with that conversation with a letter memorializing it and stating that you will make the repairs yourself and deduct the costs from your next months rental if the repairs are not started in the next five (5) days.

Keep a copy of this letter for future need and reference.


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