Tenant Rights And Repairs

Summary

In Texas, landlords must maintain safe and habitable properties. If repairs are delayed, tenants can provide written notice demanding action. Failure to address issues may allow tenants to terminate the lease or make repairs and deduct costs from rent. Document communications and conditions, and consult a local attorney for guidance. Contact the San Antonio Housing Authority for further assistance.

Full Conversation

Laura
Hi Laura! How can I assist you with your legal issue today?
I am a tenant involved in a lease agreement for a house I rent
Hi Laura! Could you please tell me your location? This will help me provide you with more specific information regarding tenant rights and lease agreements in your area.
San Antonio, Texas
Hey Laura! Thanks for providing your location. What specific issue are you experiencing with your lease agreement? This will help me give you the most relevant information.
I informed my landlord of a water leak on March *, *. After a substantial wait the work to fix the leak commenced on June *, *. The work done required the entire front yard to be excavated including sidewalks, stairs and several trenches. This resulted in extremely hazardous conditions and ultimately the repair being unfinished. It is now October *, * and still the front yard is a safety and health hazard. As a matter of fact, my 4 year old grandson fell and hurt his elbow a few weeks ago but much worse is that due to these conditions my brother was going to the street to meet with an ambulance that had been called to take him to the hospital when he fell and hurt his arm, leg and knee. He is currently suffering from stage * cancer and in radiology and chemotherapy treatments rendering this fall extremely dangerous to his health and ability to continue treatment.
Laura, it sounds like you have a strong case given the hazardous conditions and the injuries sustained. Here are some general points about tenant rights in Texas:
- Landlords must make necessary repairs to keep the property safe and habitable.
- You can provide written notice to your landlord demanding repairs.
- If repairs are not made, you may have the right to terminate the lease or make repairs and deduct costs from rent.
Have you already given written notice to your landlord about the unfinished repairs and hazardous conditions?
Yes. Dating back to March *, * and several other written notices the last one as recently as October *, *.
Laura, it looks like you have a strong case for pursuing legal action.
Given the serious injuries and the hazardous conditions, here are some next steps you might consider:
- Document all communications with your landlord and take photos of the hazardous conditions.
- Contact your local housing authority to file a complaint.
- Consider consulting with a local attorney specializing in tenant rights.
Would you like information on how to contact your local housing authority or details about tenant rights lawyers in San Antonio?
Yes
~San Antonio Housing Authority
Phone: (*) *-*
Website: www.saha.org

~Tenant Rights Lawyers in San Antonio
Phone: (*) *-*
Website: www.sanantoniotenantsrights.com

Would you like assistance with anything else related to your situation?
No thank you
Laura, it sounds like you have taken some important steps already, and your situation definitely warrants further action. If you do change your mind and need more assistance, feel free to reach out. Best of luck!