Landlord won't make repairs in California
The rules that apply in California, from official sources.
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General legal information from official sources, not legal advice. You decide what to do.
What this problem is
Landlords must keep rental homes safe and livable, and repair problems within a reasonable time after you tell them. The details, and what you can do if they don't, depend on your state.
Your rights in plain language
Time to repair
30 days from giving notice to the landlord (presumed reasonable time to repair)
Verified source: Cal. Civ. Code § 1942 — Repair and deduct(opens in a new tab)
If repairs aren't made
Cal. Civ. Code § 1942. If the landlord doesn't make needed repairs within a reasonable time after notice, you may be able to repair and deduct the cost from rent, up to one month's rent, with limits.
Verified source: Cal. Civ. Code § 1942 — Repair and deduct(opens in a new tab)
Key deadlines
| Deadline | Source |
|---|---|
| Time presumed reasonable for the repair ends: 30 days (giving notice to the landlord (presumed reasonable time to repair)) |
The official process
Record the problem
Take dated photos and write down when it started and how it affects you.
Tell your landlord in writing
Send a dated request listing each problem, and keep a copy.
Allow the time your state requires
Your landlord gets a period to make the repair, which depends on your state and how serious the problem is.
Escalate
If nothing happens, ask your local code enforcement office to inspect, and get help before using remedies like withholding rent.
Common mistakes
- Only telling the landlord by phone.
- Withholding rent without following the exact legal steps.
- Not keeping photos and copies of everything you send.
Questions
Is this free?
The information on this page and your personalized results are free. If you want us to prepare a repair request for you to review and send, the price is shown before you start.
Can I stop paying rent until repairs are made?
Only in some states and only after strict steps, such as written notice and a waiting period. Doing it wrong can lead to eviction, so check your state's rule and consider getting help first.
Which states can you prepare a letter for?
Right now: Florida, California, New York and Texas. For other states we show free information and people who can help.
Get help from a person
Free and low-cost help, and official bodies that can step in.
- LawHelp.orgPlain-language guides and legal aid directories, by state.
- Legal Services Corporation: find legal aidFree civil legal aid organizations in every state, for people on lower incomes.
- California Courts Self-Help GuideThe California courts' official guides to handling a legal problem yourself.
Sources
Every rule on this page comes from these official sources. We check them regularly.
- Cal. Civ. Code § 1942 — Repair and deductCalifornia Office of Legislative Counsel · checked Oct 24, 2026
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