Legal Question in Real Estate Law in California

Leases should, but sometimes don't, cover the subject of repairs in their written terms and conditions. Beyond that, I'd say it depends upon the nature of the problem....... If it is tenant-caused, like a plugged-up toilet, the tenant is responsible. If it is a long-term deterioration issue like rusting pipes or most leaks, I'd say the landlord is responsible.

I agree with Mr. Whipple that it depends on the source of the problem. Hot and cold running water and a functioning sanitary sewer system are conditions of habitability that the landlord must by law provide. If the repairs are needed due to conduct or omissions of the tenant, however, the landlord is entitled to charge the tenant the costs of repairs.