Housing...Inside and Out

September 9, 1998
Responsibilities Of Landlords - Part 4

Unless the renter has agreed to repair or maintain the property in the lease, the landlord must keep the dwelling in reasonable repair. However, you are responsible for any specific damages you or your guests may cause. There are specific regulations of local housing authorities and health departments that relate to landlords of residential properties. These also apply to government or public agencies acting as landlords. To properly maintain the premises, the landlord must:

  • Comply with the requirement of applicable building and housing codes materially affecting health and safety;
  • Make all repairs and do whatever is necessary to put and keep the premises in a fit and habitable condition:
  • Keep all common areas of the premises in a clean and safe condition;
  • Maintain in good and safe working order and condition all electrical, plumbing, sanitary, heating, ventilating, air conditioning, and other facilities and appliances, including elevators supplied or required to be supplied by the landlord;
  • Provide and maintain appropriate receptacles and conveniences for the removal of ashes, garbage, rubbish, and other waste incidental to the occupancy of the dwelling unit and to arrange for their removal;
  • Supply running water and reasonable amounts of hot water at all times and reasonable heat, usually between October 1 and May 1, except where the tenant has complete control over the heating system and pays the bill to a public utility; 
  • Provide for the quiet enjoyment of the premises by the tenant. This means privacy, peace, quiet and use of the premises; and
  • Not charge rent in excess of any legal limits.


Written by Dr. Francis Graham (Retired)

A black line that separates the body text from footer information