What should I do immediately after my rental is damaged by a storm?

Document the damage, contact your landlord in writing as soon as possible, and make sure everyone is safe before starting repairs or moving out.

Can I stop paying rent if my home is unsafe after flooding?

If your rental is wholly uninhabitable, Oregon law may relieve you of the duty to pay rent, as long as you give your landlord proper written notice.

Who handles emergency rental disputes in Oregon?

The Oregon Judicial Department (Circuit Court) is responsible for landlord-tenant disputes during emergencies.

Do landlords have to provide temporary housing in a disaster?

Oregon law does not require landlords to provide alternative housing, but government or charitable agencies may be able to help.

Oregon Renters’ Rights During Storms and Flood Emergencies

Security, Locks & Emergency Protections Oregon published June 21, 2025

Severe weather and flooding can strike unpredictably in Oregon, putting renters and their homes at risk. As an Oregon renter, understanding your emergency rights can help you stay safe and recover from the effects of storms and floods. This guide covers what Oregon law says about storm and flood emergencies, how to request emergency repairs, your right to safe living conditions, and what to do if your rental becomes uninhabitable.

Key Emergency Rights for Oregon Renters

Under the Oregon Residential Landlord and Tenant Act, landlords must provide safe, habitable housing at all times—including during emergencies like storms and floods.^[1] Renters have the right to:

Quick repairs for urgent problems caused by disasters (e.g., flooding, roof leaks, broken heating or plumbing)
Notification if the property becomes unsafe or uninhabitable
Terminate the rental agreement under certain circumstances if the home cannot be restored quickly

Landlord Duties in Storm and Flood Emergencies

Oregon law requires landlords to:

Maintain essential services such as heat, water, and electricity
Repair damage that makes the rental unit unsafe or violates housing codes
Respond promptly to written requests for emergency or urgent repairs
Communicate about hazards and temporary relocations if needed

If a disaster makes your rental unlivable, you may have the right to move out temporarily or permanently and adjust your rent obligations. Always keep a written record of all communication with your landlord.

What Counts as an Emergency or Urgent Repair?

Repairs required when a disaster strikes may include:

Broken windows, doors, or locks due to wind or flooding
Flooded floors or severe water leaks
No heat, electricity, or water
Structural damage making the home unsafe

Notify your landlord right away in writing (email or letter) for these urgent situations. Oregon law allows you to request emergency help, and the landlord must address the issue as quickly as possible.

What Happens If Your Rental Is Uninhabitable Due to a Storm or Flood?

If disaster damage leaves your rental unit unsafe or untenantable, Oregon law allows you to:

End your lease without penalty by giving your landlord written notice within 14 days of the event^[1]
Request urgent repairs and temporary accommodation, if available
Stop paying rent if you must vacate because the home is wholly uninhabitable

Partial rent reductions, known as "abatement," may apply if only part of the home is unusable (e.g., one room is damaged). Landlords are not required to provide alternative housing, but some may assist voluntarily. Government emergency agencies may also offer temporary shelter during wide-scale disasters.

If your home is unsafe after a storm or flood, take photos, document the damage, and contact both your landlord and local housing authorities as soon as possible.

Filing an Emergency Complaint or Dispute in Oregon

The Oregon Judicial Department manages landlord-tenant court cases. If you and your landlord cannot resolve an emergency repair, you can file a complaint in your local Circuit Court (which acts as the tribunal for tenancy disputes).

Official Forms for Emergency Situations

Residential Notice of Termination (ORS 90.396, ORS 90.445)
When to use it: Use this written notice to end your lease if your home is destroyed or severely damaged by disaster. For example, if flooding makes your apartment unsafe and the landlord cannot fix it quickly, you may submit this notice.
Oregon State Bar: Sample Notice Forms
Repair Request or Notice of Essential Services Violation
When to use it: Give this notice to your landlord in writing if essential services (like heat or plumbing) fail after a storm and the repair is urgent.
Oregon Disaster Housing Resources
Landlord-Tenant Complaint (Small Claims or Civil Case)
When to use it: If the landlord does not respond to your emergency request, you may file a complaint with your local court for resolution. Find instructions and forms at: OJD Landlord-Tenant Resources

Each form should be completed carefully, with dates and evidence included. Always keep copies for your records and provide your landlord with written notice (not just verbal communication).

Steps: Taking Action During a Storm or Flood Emergency

Act quickly to protect yourself and your legal rights if your rental is damaged by a disaster.

Document all damage with photos or video as soon as it is safe
Submit a written repair request or termination notice to your landlord
Give your landlord a reasonable time to fix urgent problems (usually 24–48 hours for emergencies)
Contact local authorities or court if repairs do not happen

FAQ: Oregon Renters and Disaster Emergencies

What should I do immediately after my rental is damaged by a storm?
Start by documenting the damage, contacting your landlord in writing, and ensuring your safety. Wait for instructions from emergency services if the area is unsafe.
Can I stop paying rent if my apartment is uninhabitable?
If your home is wholly unlivable due to disaster and you move out, Oregon law relieves you of rent duty. Always formally notify your landlord.
Does my landlord have to pay for temporary housing during repairs?
There is no legal requirement for landlords to provide or pay for alternate housing, but some may offer assistance voluntarily or under local government orders.
Where can I get emergency housing help in Oregon?
Contact Oregon Disaster Assistance for shelter or housing resources during declared disasters.
How do I file a landlord complaint if repairs are ignored?
You can file with your local Circuit Court. See the Landlord-Tenant Resources from the Oregon Judicial Department for instructions and forms.

Key Takeaways for Renters

Oregon law protects renters’ rights during emergencies—landlords must address urgent repairs and cannot require rent from tenants if the unit is uninhabitable
Use official written notices and court forms if you need to document repair requests, lease termination, or dispute resolution
Contact state or local agencies for emergency housing or legal support if needed

By knowing your rights and keeping good records, you can navigate storm and flood emergencies with greater confidence.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

Oregon Judicial Department: Landlord-Tenant Resources — Official tribunal for tenancy matters
Oregon Housing and Community Services: Disaster Housing Recovery
Oregon Disaster Assistance and Shelter
Oregon State Bar: Tenant Legal Information

Oregon Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (ORS Chapter 90)