How Long Must Alabama Landlords Take to Make Repairs?

If you’re renting in Alabama and something in your home needs fixing, it’s important to know your rights and your landlord’s legal responsibilities. State law sets out clear timeframes and steps for both tenants and landlords when it comes to repairs, so renters can feel safe and protected in their homes. This guide explains how long an Alabama landlord has to make repairs, what you can do if repairs aren’t made, and where to get official help.

Landlord Repair Responsibilities Under Alabama Law

In Alabama, landlords are required to keep rental properties safe, clean, and livable. This is known as the implied warranty of habitability. Under the Alabama Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act, Section 35-9A-204, landlords must:

• Keep the property in good repair and fit for living
• Maintain basic utilities, plumbing, heating, and appliances furnished with the unit
• Comply with building and housing codes that affect health and safety

This ensures that renters aren’t left to deal with unsafe or unlivable conditions.

How Long Does a Landlord Have to Make Repairs?

A landlord must fix most repair issues within seven (7) days of receiving written notice from the tenant (Section 35-9A-401 of the Alabama Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act). This timeframe starts once the landlord gets written notice of the problem. Some major issues—like a lack of heat in winter or unsafe living conditions—may require faster action to protect tenant health and safety.

What Counts as Written Notice?

• Letter sent by mail, email (if agreed in writing), or hand delivery
• Always keep a copy for your records in case you need to prove you notified your landlord

If the landlord does not make repairs within the legal timeframe, tenants may have additional rights, such as the option to end their lease or seek action in court.

What to Do if Repairs Are Not Made

If repairs are not completed within seven days after your written request, here are your main options under Alabama law:

• Give a second written notice and warn that the lease will end unless repairs are made
• In some cases, end your lease and move out after 14 days following your first notice if repairs are still not made
• Seek legal action through your local court (“district court”) if conditions are severe

Relevant Official Forms

• Notice of Defective Condition (No official form number):
  Use this to notify your landlord in writing about specific repairs needed.
  Example: If your heater stops working and the landlord hasn’t responded to phone calls, you can send this written notice (keep a dated copy).
  Alabama Attorney General: Landlord-Tenant Rights
• Lease Termination Notice Due to Unrepaired Defects (No official form number):
  Use this if you need to formally end your lease after your landlord doesn’t make timely repairs.
  Example: If your written notice hasn’t resulted in repair after 14 days, send a lease termination letter as Alabama law allows.
  Alabama Attorney General: Landlord-Tenant Rights

While Alabama does not have standardized state landlord-tenant forms, sample notice letters and guidance are available through the Alabama Attorney General's official website.

Which Court Handles Tenant-Landlord Disputes in Alabama?

In Alabama, rental dispute cases are typically handled by the local District Court. If repairs are not made and your health or safety is at risk, you may file a complaint in district court.

Summary: Timeframes and Next Steps

• Landlords generally have seven days after written notice to make most repairs
• Tenants must provide written notice and should always keep documentation
• If repairs aren’t made, tenants can give further notice, end the lease, or file a court claim

Understanding your rights under the Alabama Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act ensures you know how to proceed if a repair issue arises.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How do I give my landlord written notice for repairs?
   Write a letter or email with the date, your address, and details of the needed repairs. Keep a copy and proof that you sent it.
2. Can I withhold rent if repairs aren’t made in Alabama?
   No, Alabama law does not usually allow you to withhold rent due to repair issues unless a court orders it.
3. What if my landlord takes too long or ignores my request?
   If there’s no response within seven days, give a second notice. After 14 days with no action, you may be able to end your lease or take legal action.
4. Does the seven-day rule apply to emergency repairs?
   Alabama law doesn’t set a shorter timeline for emergencies, but acting quickly for safety-related problems is always best. Always put urgent requests in writing and say it’s an emergency.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Alabama Attorney General - Tenant Rights Guide
• Alabama Attorney General Consumer Protection Hotline: 1-800-392-5658
• Alabama Legal Help: Housing Section
• Alabama District Court Locations

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1. Alabama Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (Title 35, Chapter 9A)
2. Section 35-9A-204 – Landlord to maintain premises
3. Section 35-9A-401 – Failure to comply with rental agreement; remedies
4. Alabama Attorney General – Tenant Rights
5. Alabama District Court Information

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