What can an individual do if their rental property does not meet habitability standards?

When a rental property does not meet habitability standards, an individual can take legal action by filing a complaint with local authorities or initiating a lawsuit against the landlord. This approach is essential because landlords are legally obligated to provide habitable living conditions, which include maintaining the property in a safe and sanitary state. If the landlord fails to fulfill this obligation, tenants have the right to seek remedies through the legal system.

Filing a complaint with local authorities can lead to inspections and potential enforcement actions to ensure the property meets required standards. Additionally, taking the landlord to court allows tenants to potentially claim damages, enforce repair obligations, or obtain other legal remedies if the landlord fails to address the issues in a timely manner.

Addressing the problems through legal channels is a structured and often necessary step, as it emphasizes the tenant’s rights while also providing a platform for resolution that may not occur through informal means. This method also ensures that tenants' legal protections are upheld in accordance with state and local housing laws.