What if my landlord won’t fix a health or safety issue?

Provide written notice of the problem and request repairs. If it’s still unresolved, you may contact local code enforcement or pursue legal action using Alaska’s courts.

Can I withhold rent if repairs aren’t made?

You may withhold rent in certain situations, but only after following proper written notice procedures as outlined under Alaska law.

How do I report serious health code violations?

Report to your local code enforcement department, and if unresolved, use Alaska Court System forms to pursue action.

What should I include in a written repair notice?

Include the specific problem, how it impacts you, the date, and a requested repair timeline.

Is working heat required in Alaska rentals?

Yes. Alaska law requires landlords to provide adequate heating, especially during winter.

Alaska Rental Housing Health Code Requirements Explained

Health & Safety Standards Alaska published: June 21, 2025

Every renter in Alaska deserves a safe and healthy place to live. Understanding the minimum housing health codes for rentals helps protect your well-being and ensures landlords meet their legal responsibilities. Let’s break down Alaska’s standards and your rights as a renter—backed by Alaska law and official resources.

Minimum Health and Safety Standards for Alaska Rentals

Alaska’s rental housing health codes set basic requirements landlords must meet. These standards help prevent unsafe or unsanitary living conditions and keep your home safe.

Key Health Code Requirements for Rental Housing

Weatherproofing: Roofs, windows, and doors must prevent rain, wind, and snow from entering.
Heating: The home must provide adequate, safe heating appliances to maintain reasonable indoor temperatures during Alaska winters.
Plumbing: There must be clean, running water—including hot and cold—for bathing, cooking, and cleaning, as well as safe sewage disposal.
Electrical Safety: The property must have working electrical fixtures and outlets, free from hazardous conditions.
Sanitary Facilities: Proper, functioning toilets, sinks, and showers or tubs must be present and in good repair.
Pest Control: Rentals must be free from infestations when you move in and kept in sanitary condition thereafter.
Garbage Removal: The landlord must supply adequate containers or systems for regular garbage disposal.

These standards are outlined in the Alaska Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act and enforced locally by city or borough building/housing departments when applicable.^[1]

Your Rights If Standards Aren't Met

If your rental doesn’t meet these requirements, you have rights under Alaska law. You may be able to request repairs, withhold rent (in certain cases), or report violations.

How to Address Health and Safety Issues

If you notice a health or safety problem in your rental, here’s what to do:

Notify your landlord in writing about the specific issue. Keep a copy for your records.
If not resolved promptly (usually within 10 days), you can take further action, such as contacting your local code enforcement office or starting formal procedures as described below.
If the issue is severe and makes the unit unlivable, you may have additional options under Alaska law.

Required Official Forms for Alaska Renters

Notice of Repair Issue (Written Notice of Defects):
When to use: If your landlord isn’t addressing repairs, give them a written notice. Include the issue, date, and a time frame for repair (usually at least 10 days).
How to use: Write a dated letter or use a printable template available from the Alaska Court System's Housing Forms page. Deliver it in person or send by certified mail for proof.
Official Source: Alaska Court Housing Forms
Tenant's Notice to Terminate for Failure to Maintain (AS 34.03.180):
When to use: If serious health or safety repairs aren’t made, you can send this notice to end your lease early.
How to use: Complete the notice according to AS 34.03.180. A sample can be found on the official Alaska Court System's Housing Forms page.
Official Source: Tenant’s Notice to Landlord (PDF)
Court Complaint Forms (Complaint for Forcible Entry and Detainer):
When to use: If the landlord attempts to evict you unlawfully in response to your repair complaint, you may respond or defend in court.
How to use: Find and fill out the forms on the Alaska Court System Housing Eviction Forms page.

You can find all the above and more at the Alaska Court System Self-Help Housing center.

Tip: Always make repair requests in writing and keep copies. Document the condition of your rental with photos or video before and during your tenancy.

Who Handles Rental Disputes in Alaska?

The Alaska Court System manages disputes between landlords and tenants, including those related to health and safety. Your local city or borough may also have a code enforcement or building safety office for reporting unsafe conditions.^[2]

Relevant State Law: Alaska Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act

Alaska’s key legislation on rental housing is the Alaska Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (Alaska Statutes Title 34, Chapter 3). This law explains landlord obligations, tenant rights, and steps to resolve disputes, including minimum health codes.^[1]

FAQs: Minimum Housing Health Codes for Alaska Rentals

What if my landlord won’t fix a health or safety issue?
You should provide written notice detailing the problem and give your landlord a reasonable time to make repairs. If not resolved, you may contact your local code enforcement or pursue action under state law, including using official court forms.
Can I withhold rent if repairs aren’t made?
Sometimes, but only as allowed by the Alaska Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act. You must follow proper steps, such as written notice and giving required time for repairs, before withholding or deducting rent.
How do I report serious health code violations?
Contact your city or borough code enforcement office, or start with a repair notice to your landlord. For unresolved problems, the Alaska Court System offers forms for legal proceedings if needed.
What should be included in a written repair notice?
State the health or safety issue, how it affects you, the date, and a time frame for repairs. Keep a copy and send via trackable method if possible.
Is my rental required to have working heat in winter?
Yes. Heating adequate for Alaska's winter is explicitly required by housing health codes. Notify your landlord immediately for any problems.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

Alaska Court System – Landlord Tenant Self-Help Center: For official forms, guides, and dispute info
Alaska Department of Commerce: Building/Home Inspection: Information and complaint contacts
Contact your city or borough building code enforcement or public health department for local complaints
Alaska Legal Services Corporation: Free or low-cost legal help for eligible renters