Every residential lease (written/verbal) contains what is known as an implied "warranty of habitability". This is legal guarantee that gives a tenant the right to live in a safe and clean rental. If a landlord fails to make necessary repairs, a tenant may: Repair and Deduct - repair the problem and then charge the landlord for the cost of the repair; Terminate the Lease - end their tenancy and vacate the premises; orWithhold Rent - refuse to make any further rental payments until the repairs are properly made. As a part of all of this, you can also contact a the building department in your locality and see if it will send someone out to inspect your residence. Their finding can act as strong evidence of your claim.Before pursuing any of these remedies you should first consult with a landlord-tenant attorney.  If you fail to follow proper procedures you could be held financially liable for attempting any of these self-help measures.