Legal Question in Real Estate Law in Oklahoma

Tenant Rights when repairs aren't made

I have rented the same duplex for about 1 1/2 years (in Oklahoma). I was recently out of town for 5 days, and when I came home found the refrigerator not working and all of the food spoiled. Later I realized that the kitchen range is not working either. I have left 5 phone messages with my landlord over 3 days and a written message taped to his door, giving work, home and cell phone number. He has not contacted me.

What rights to I have. Can I take the cost of meals eaten out (since I could neither store nor cook food) off my next rent payment? Is my landlord responsible for any of the food lost in the refrigerator?


Asked on 11/26/02, 10:42 am

1 Answer from Attorneys
Hunt John Urgentlegalcare.com

Re: Tenant Rights when repairs aren't made

Thank you for your question. I would need to review your written lease to determine whose responsibility it is to make or maintain certain aspects of your duplex. Also, would need to know why you have no electricity to these appliances versus whether they are just not working properly. If it is the Landlords responsibility to repair/maintain these appliances and the applicance are not working because they are broken or in need of repair versus just a blown fuse or circuit breaker, then You would be within your rights to have them repaired and deduct the cost of repair from your next rent. As for the food, I do not believe that you can recover that expense unless the Landlord caused the initial power outage or refrigerator to break down.

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Answered on 11/26/02, 12:02 pm


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