Forms

If there is an issue that makes a rental home unsafe to live in, renters should tell their landlord in writing as soon as possible so that the landlord is aware of the issue. Use our forms to generate a first, second, or third letter to a landlord.

How to Send a Letter

Landlords can require in the lease that renters communicate with them in a specific way. They may ask renters to use a website, online “portal”, email, or text message.

  1. Check the lease. If a lease says renters must communicate in a specific way, you should use that method.
  2. If the landlord does not specify in the lease, you should communicate the way you have in the past.
  3. If you have not communicated with your landlord in the past, you can send your letter
  • In an e-mail
  • With certified mail or USPS first class
  • Hand-deliver the letter to the landlord or property manager’s business office

What Letter Do I Need?

Use our Next Step Guide to help you figure out what you need.

Find Your Next Step

First Letter

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If there is an issue that makes a rental home unsafe to live in, it is a breach in the Warranty of Habitability law. The renter should tell their landlord as soon as possible so that the landlord is aware of the issue.

Second Letter

Sending the first letter may not be enough to get the issue fixed. Use one of these second letters to take action.

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Get the issue fixed

If a landlord does not respond on time to the first letter, the renter can get the issue fixed by a professional and deduct the cost of fixing the issue from their normal rent.

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End the lease and move out

If a landlord does not respond on time to the first letter, the renter might be able to end their lease early and move out entirely.

Deal with a repeat issue

Sometimes when a landlord fixes an issue, it can be a temporary fix. If the issue has come back and caused problems again, you may be able to end your lease early and move out.

Third Letter

Icon of switching houses

If a renter wants to end their lease and move out, they should send a third letter. This third letter will inform the landlord when the renter will be moving out. Renters should make sure they have already sent first and second letters.