How Are Maintenance Requests Resolved?

The landlord must resolve major maintenance requests, like a faulty air conditioner, in a timely manner or face violation of applicable landlord-tenant laws or building and housing codes. The tenant, though, has a responsibility to let the landlord know of needed major repairs immediately; if the cost of the repair increases significantly because of inaction on the tenant's part, the landlord may deduct partial cost of the repairs from the security deposit per the lease.

The landlord has more leeway when it comes to resolving minor maintenance issues, like a broken icemaker in a refrigerator, while cosmetic repairs, like chipped paint, may be put off until the tenant moves out.