Landlord Maintenance/Sanitation

How long do landlords have to fix a plumbing problem? My toilet has been clogged for 8 (On 5/21) days. (Not flushing properly since I moved in over a year ago) They keep saying it's on their "to-do" list. It now reeks of rancid sewage. My neighbor kindly lets me use her toilet but I am sure I am wearing out my welcome. I live in Georgia. Thank you.

Did you try to plunge it? Did you report that it hasn't been flushing properly all along? (If not, management probably thinks it is your fault it is clogged. Tenants can be charged for plumbing problems that they cause.)

Did you do a repair request in writing? All repair requests should be made in writing to provide proof that a request was made. If you didn't put it in writing, do so immediately. Talk to the repairman. If it hasn't been fluching properly the entire time and continues to clog, an object may be stuck inside the bottom flange (like a small child's toy from the previous tenant).

State law varies, but emergency repairs usually must be started within 72 hours, non-emergency repairs should be made within 30 days. If this is your only toilet, it should be fixed quickly, and should not be listed in the 30 day category. (Management does know this is your omnly toilet, right? Or are there some units with 1&1/2 or 2 bathrooms? If so, make them aware that you have no toilet facilities and HAVE NOT HAD FOR 8 DAYS NOW!) If you had a second bath, it could be in the 30 day category.

If they do not repair your only bath within 72 hours of making a formal written repair request, call the health department or the city building inspector to get management moving. If they still do nothing, call the clerk of courts for more help. (Although your state does not have a repair and deduct remedy or a rent withholding remedy, a local judge may allow it given the circumstances.)

Thank you for this information. I will definately use it for future reference. I just kept calling everyday and left messages saying "Hi its ____. It's not day 5-6-7-8- since my toilet has not been fixed." That seemed to work! They left a maintenance note saying it was clogged due to "Q-tips" in the pipes. Whatever the reason, it's now fixed.