Your name, mailing address, phone number, and e-mail address. The same information (or as much as you can obtain) for your landlord/building manager. A detailed description of your complaint, including the exact nature of the problem, any pictures you have taken to showcase the problem, the steps you have taken to correct it, and all relevant dates (e. g. , the date you noticed the problem, the dates you contacted your landlord, etc. ). [4] X Research source A copy of your lease, any applicable bills (such as repair invoices), and copies of all communication between you and your landlord.
Start by conducting an internet search for “city/county of «your city/county» landlord complaint,” or a similar search phrase. Near the top of the list, look for government websites (i. e. , those that end in . gov) to find the appropriate page for your city/county. Certain cities/counties allow for complaints to be submitted online. [5] X Research source Others provide a telephone number that you can use to submit your complaint. [6] X Research source
Use a positive, non-accusatory tone whenever possible. Your local government will be acting as an impartial fact-finder during its investigation. You don’t want to start off on the wrong foot by demanding a resolution or insulting your landlord. Stick to the facts and try not to editorialize. Explain the issues you are having as clearly and succinctly as possible. Many forms have a word limit, or limited space in which to write. When detailing your problem, be sure to include all relevant information that illustrates the problem you are having, but don’t go into unrelated issues. When in doubt, keep your complaint short, simple, and to the point. Be sure to explain how your landlord could fix the problem.
Make sure to write down this number and keep it in your records so you can reference it later.
The city/county may attempt to contact your landlord/building manager and work out a solution with him or her. The city/county may send a housing inspector to your property to gather information and verify the problem detailed in your complaint. The city/county may contact you after some time has lapsed since your initial complaint to see if your issue has been resolved. If it has not—or has only been partially corrected—be sure to let the person who contacted you know. The city/county may refer your case to other government agencies who can assist you.
Making sure all of this documentation is safely in your records will make your case stronger in the future.
Conduct an internet search for “«your state» landlord complaint” to find the relevant state agency that can help you with your problem. Near the top of the list, look for government websites (i. e. , those that end in . gov) to find the appropriate page for your state’s agency tasked with resolving landlord–tenant problems. Not all state agencies can act directly to solve your issue, but they will, at least, provide helpful resources you can use to resolve your problem. [10] X Research source
Use a positive, non-accusatory tone whenever possible. Your state government will be acting as an impartial fact-finder during its investigation. You don’t want to start off on the wrong foot by demanding a resolution or insulting your landlord. Stick to the facts and try not to editorialize. Explain the issues you are having as clearly and succinctly as possible. Many forms have a word limit, or limited space in which to write. When detailing your problem, be sure to include all relevant information that illustrates the problem you are having, but don’t go into unrelated issues. When in doubt, keep your complaint short, simple, and to the point. Be sure to explain how your landlord could fix the problem.
Your name and contact information. The name and contact information of the individual your complaint is against. Identifying information for the housing involved. A description (including relevant dates) of the problem. The steps you have taken to resolve the dispute. What would need to happen in order for you to feel that your complaint is resolved.
The agency may send you a letter confirming your complaint submission. The agency may conduct an investigation. The agency may refer you and your landlord to mediation, so your dispute can be settled informally. The agency may attempt to contact your landlord/building manager and work out a solution with him or her. The agency may contact you after some time has lapsed since your initial complaint to see if your issue has been resolved. If it has not—or has only been partially corrected—be sure to let the person who contacted you know.
To determine if this is a possibility for you, try conducting an internet search for “«your state» landlord tenant law. " There are also legal databases online that provide an overview of each state’s landlord–tenant law. [18] X Research source If you are unsure as to whether or not you can legally withhold rent in your particular situation, contact an experienced attorney and ask for his or her advice. This is the best way to ensure you are complying with your legal obligations.
Again, your best option is to contact a local attorney and ask him or her for advice on this matter.
Be sure to read the terms of your lease carefully before you make a decision like this. Often, lease agreements will contain terms that describe what will happen in the event the lease is terminated early (e. g. , the renter having to pay a penalty or surrender a security deposit). If the language in the contract is complicated or you are having difficulty understanding it, try contacting an attorney who might be able to help. An experienced attorney will be able to give you the best advice regarding your options, especially if you tell him or her the exact nature of the problem forcing you to consider breaking your lease.
