habitability protected.
Landlords must keep rentals habitable. If a serious defect goes unrepaired after reasonable notice, you may use 'repair and deduct' for up to one month's rent (no more than twice a year) or, in some cases, withhold rent.
What this means for you: You don't have to live with broken heat, no hot water, or a leaking roof. But you must give the landlord proper written notice and a reasonable chance to fix it first.
Your next step: Send a dated written repair request describing the problem. Use the repair-request template and keep a copy before using any remedy.
Source: Cal. Civ. Code §§ 1941, 1942. Reviewed 2026-06-16.
More California rights: California security deposit · California eviction · California entry notice · California rent increase.
Repairs in nearby states: Oregon (habitability protected) · Nevada (habitability protected) · Arizona (habitability protected).
General legal information, not legal advice. Laws change and vary by locality; consult a licensed attorney or your local housing authority.
Updated July 2026