What to Do When Repairs Are Needed
1. Notify Your Landlord Immediately (In Writing)
If something in your unit needs repair, you should notify your landlord as soon as possible—and always in writing.
- A text message is acceptable at first.
- If you don’t get a response, send a formal letter by certified mail so you have proof of communication.
- Keep a copy of the letter and allow the landlord a reasonable amount of time to address the issue.
2. Call Code Enforcement if the Landlord Doesn’t Act
If the landlord fails to respond or fix the issue:
- Contact Code Enforcement to file a complaint.
- Be present during the inspection if possible, so you can point out all unresolved problems.
- Request a copy of the inspection report from Code Enforcement.
- In Albany, you can also find the report on the Citizen Self Service Portal.
- If Code Enforcement finds violations, the landlord will be given a deadline to make repairs.
3. Re-Inspection by Code Enforcement
Once the deadline passes:
- If the landlord has made the necessary repairs, the case is closed.
- If the landlord hasn’t taken action—or the work is not satisfactory—the case is referred to prosecution.
4. Prosecution (City Takes Landlord to Court)
- The City of Albany will petition the landlord and bring them to housing court.
- A judge may settle the matter or set a trial date.
What Tenants Can Do
- Under the Tenant Dignity and Safe Housing Act, tenants have the right to sue their landlord for:
- Needed repairs
- Rent abatements (partial refunds)
- Money judgments and more
- If you’re considering legal action, call United Tenants of Albany (UTA) and we can walk you through the process.
What About Withholding Rent?
Tenants may choose to withhold rent if repairs are not being made—but be cautious:
- The landlord can still try to evict you for non-payment.
- However, if you’re able to pay the amount the judge determines is owed, you cannot be evicted.