Asking your landlord for a repair

Have this ready

• The date you first noticed the problem
• Photos
• Your lease, so you know who handles repairs

What to say

1. Open

   “Hi, this is [your name] in unit [number]. I'm calling about a repair.”

2. Say what's wrong

   “The [heater / sink / lock] has [what's happening] since [date].”

3. Ask for a time

   “Can you tell me when someone can come look at it?”

4. Confirm in writing

   “I'll send this in an email too, so we both have it in writing. What's the best address?”

5. Close

   “Thanks. I'll check back on [day] if I haven't heard anything.”

Write down the date, the name of the person you spoke with, and what they said.

After the call

• Send the same request in writing, with the date, and keep a copy (USA.gov).
• Don't stop paying rent to force a repair unless you've confirmed your state allows it and you follow its steps exactly. Check your state's tenant resources first (USA.gov).
• Stuck? Legal aid can help with landlord problems (USA.gov).