What must a tenant do before asking for repairs?

The document states that all rent must be paid before a tenant can enforce repair rights. A tenant who is behind in rent may lose rights to have repairs made until the rent is paid.

What is the best way to ask the landlord for repairs?

The text advises that sending a written letter is always the best way to request a repair, as email may not count as proper written notice.

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Repair Rights–Austin Tenants Council

Texas · TexasLawHelp.org

This document provides information about a tenant's rights to have a landlord fix things that threaten the tenant's health or safety. It explains the steps a tenant must take to properly ask the landlord for repairs if the landlord does not act.

Open the official PDFfrom TexasLawHelp.org

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Stage: Motions

This information is used by tenants who believe their landlord has failed to make necessary repairs to keep the rental unit safe and healthy.

Either party may file.

Common questions

What must a tenant do before asking for repairs?: The document states that all rent must be paid before a tenant can enforce repair rights. A tenant who is behind in rent may lose rights to have repairs made until the rent is paid.
What is the best way to ask the landlord for repairs?: The text advises that sending a written letter is always the best way to request a repair, as email may not count as proper written notice.

Revision history

No changes recorded since we started tracking this form on October 9, 2026.

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