How to Request Repairs from Your Landlord in Pennsylvania

Is your rental in Pennsylvania in need of repairs? If you’re dealing with problems like broken heating, plumbing leaks, or pest infestations, you have rights under Pennsylvania law to a safe and livable home. Knowing how to request repairs properly can make all the difference in getting results—and protecting yourself if your landlord doesn’t respond.

Understanding Your Rights as a Pennsylvania Renter

Every Pennsylvania renter has the right to a rental unit that meets basic health and safety standards. This is called the warranty of habitability. Your landlord is required to maintain your home in a safe, sanitary, and functional condition under Pennsylvania law. Common repairs covered by this obligation include:

• Working heat, plumbing, and electrical systems
• Safe floors, stairs, and structural elements
• Protection from water, pests, and mold
• Functional smoke detectors

If these essentials are lacking, you have the right to ask for repairs under Pennsylvania's Landlord and Tenant Act¹.

How to Make a Repair Request That Gets Results

Taking the right steps helps ensure your repair request is clear, official, and actionable. Always put your request in writing—even if you have already spoken to your landlord about the problem.

Step 1: Document the Problem

• Take clear photos or videos of the issue, including dates
• Write down what’s broken and how it’s affecting you

Step 2: Prepare Your Written Repair Request

• Include your name, rental address, and the date
• Describe the problem in detail
• Request repairs by a reasonable deadline (usually 7–14 days for non-urgent issues, sooner for emergencies)
• Deliver your request by certified mail, email with read receipt, or in person (keep a copy for your records)

Sending written requests gives you proof if further action is needed later.

Official Repair Request Forms in Pennsylvania

• Pennsylvania Repair Request Letter (Sample Template)
  No standard statewide form exists, but many local governments provide templates. For example, the City of Philadelphia Landlord-Tenant Office has sample complaint forms you can adapt statewide.
  • How to use: Complete with your apartment details and description of needed repairs. Submit it to your landlord and keep a copy.

What If Repairs Aren’t Made?

If your landlord does not respond or refuses to fix serious problems, you may be able to:

• File a complaint with your local housing code enforcement office (see Pennsylvania Department of Community & Economic Development for local contacts)
• Initiate a case in Pennsylvania Magisterial District Court (the tribunal handling landlord-tenant disputes in Pennsylvania)
• Exercise your right to “repair and deduct” or withhold rent only under very limited circumstances and after receiving legal advice

For formal complaints, use your municipality's Tenant Complaint or Code Violation Form (available through local city or borough websites). For example, the Philadelphia Tenant Complaint Form lets renters officially report unresolved repair problems.

How the Magisterial District Court Works

• The Magisterial District Court is the official tribunal for housing disputes between renters and landlords in Pennsylvania.
• If repairs are not made, you may file a "Landlord-Tenant Complaint" (form AOPC 310A) to seek an order for repairs or rent reductions.
• Access the Landlord-Tenant Complaint (AOPC 310A) directly from the Pennsylvania Unified Judicial System.
• Example: If your landlord fails to fix a broken furnace after you’ve sent a written request and called code enforcement, you can file this form to start a court case.

FAQ: Pennsylvania Repair Requests

1. Does my landlord have to fix everything I ask for?
   Your landlord must fix all issues that violate health, safety, and habitability standards under the law. Minor or cosmetic issues may not be required.
2. What if repairs aren’t made after I send a written request?
   If there’s no response, you can contact local code enforcement and file a complaint. In ongoing cases, you may also initiate a claim in Magisterial District Court.
3. Can I withhold rent in Pennsylvania if my landlord won’t fix problems?
   Only under very specific circumstances. Withholding rent can lead to eviction unless it’s done following proper procedures. Get advice before stopping rent payments.
4. How long should repairs take?
   Most repairs should be completed within a reasonable time, usually within 7-14 days for non-urgent matters. Emergencies like no heat or water should be addressed much sooner.
5. Where can I find official repair complaint forms?
   Check your city or borough’s website (for example, Philadelphia’s Tenant Complaint Form) or the Pennsylvania Unified Judicial System for court forms.

Key Takeaways

• Always make repair requests in writing and keep a copy for your records.
• Most repair disputes can be addressed by contacting local code enforcement before considering court action.
• Pennsylvania’s rental laws protect your right to a livable, safe home.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• PA Office of Attorney General: Tenant Rights – Renters’ legal rights explained
• Magisterial District Court – Dispute resolution for unresolved repair issues
• Pennsylvania Legal Aid Network – Free or low-cost legal help for renters
• Department of Community & Economic Development: Codes & Standards – Find your local code enforcement office
• Philadelphia Landlord-Tenant Office – Local forms and complaint guidance (for Philadelphia residents)

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1. See Pennsylvania Landlord and Tenant Act of 1951, Section 502
2. Pennsylvania Magisterial District Court: handles landlord-tenant disputes
3. Landlord-Tenant Complaint (AOPC 310A) official form

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