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California Renter Repair Laws: What Repairs You Can Do (legally)

California Renter Repair Laws: What Repairs You Can Do (legally)


Moving into a new rental in California? You might be tempted to use your toolkit to do your repairs. But in California, tenant repair laws are strict — and one wrong move could mean trouble. Of course, most of the time, it is not serious, but law is law.

 

Our guide covers what California renters can legally fix themselves, what requires landlord approval, and the smartest way to handle common rental maintenance issues in 2025.


1. ✅ Repairs Renters Can Legally Do in California

 

While every lease is different, here are the kinds of minor maintenance and cosmetic fixes you can typically do without needing written permission:

 

  1. Changing light bulbs and batteries (e.g., smoke detectors, remotes)
  2. Tightening loose cabinet handles, hinges, or doorknobs
  3. Replacing showerheads (as long as original can be reinstalled)
  4. Unclogging minor drain blockages (without dismantling pipes)
  5. Patching small nail holes or paint touch-ups (if lease allows)
  6. Installing non-permanent window treatments or shelves (command strips, tension rods, etc.)

 

🛠️ Pro Tip: Always take before-and-after photos if you make changes — especially cosmetic ones — to avoid disputes at move-out.


2. 🚫 Repairs Renters Can’t Legally Do Without Approval

 

Even if you’re handy, the following repairs require landlord permission or must be handled by the property manager under California law:

 

  • Plumbing or electrical rewiring
    You can’t install new fixtures, reroute pipes, or touch electrical panels. Doing so may violate building codes and fire safety regulations.
  • Appliance replacement or modification
    Don’t replace the stove, fridge, or dishwasher — even if it’s old — unless it’s in writing.
  • Installing ceiling fans or mounted lighting
    Anything requiring hardwiring usually requires approval and professional installation.
  • Wall modifications, permanent shelving, or large holes
    Anchors, drywall screws, or cutting into walls can be considered damage unless the lease allows it.
  • Painting entire rooms
    You may be allowed to repaint with written permission, but repainting without approval is a deposit risk.

 

💡 California Civil Code §1941.1 defines what landlords must maintain — and what tenants must leave alone.


3. ⚖️ What the Law Says About Repairs in Rentals

 

Under California Civil Code §1941, landlords are required to maintain “habitability,” which includes:

 

  1. Working plumbing, heating, electrical, and hot water
  2. Safe stairs, floors, and walls (no structural hazards)
  3. Weather protection (e.g., leak-proof windows, roofs)
  4. Functioning smoke/carbon monoxide detectors
  5. Pest control, if infestation wasn’t tenant-caused

 

If these systems break down and the landlord fails to repair them after proper notice, tenants have legal options.


4. 💥 Can a Renter Deduct Repair Costs in California?

 

Yes, but carefully.

 

California’s “Repair and Deduct” law allows tenants to fix serious habitability issues the landlord fails to address within a “reasonable time” (usually 30 days for non-emergency).

 

Here’s what to know before you do this:

 

  1. You must first notify the landlord in writing (email or certified mail is best)
  2. You must give them a reasonable window to fix the problem
  3. You can only deduct the actual cost of the repair, and the issue must affect livability (not cosmetics)
  4. You can’t use this law more than twice in a 12-month period

 

📌 Always keep receipts and documentation. If you’re unsure whether the issue qualifies, consult with a local tenant rights group or housing attorney.


5. 🧾 Common Repairs Tenants Should Never Ignore

 

Here’s what you shouldn’t try to fix yourself — but must report right away:

 

  1. Leaking pipes or water intrusion
  2. Exposed electrical wires or sparking outlets
  3. Broken locks or entry doors
  4. No heat during winter
  5. Gas smells or carbon monoxide detector failure

 

Delaying these repairs puts you at risk — and can also be considered a violation of your lease. Let the landlord know immediately, and follow up in writing.


6. 🛠️ How to Request Repairs (and Protect Yourself)

 

Here’s the smartest way to get things fixed without legal problems:

 

  1. Submit maintenance requests in writing.
    Use email or online portals so you have a time-stamped record.
  2. Include photos if possible.
    Visual proof gets faster results and protects you later.
  3. Set a reasonable deadline.
    For example: “Please fix the leaky faucet by [date], or I will hire a professional and deduct the cost under California Civil Code §1942.”
  4. Keep records of all communication.
    Save emails, texts, invoices, and notes in case of deposit disputes or legal follow-up.

7. When to Hire a Handyman — and How to Get Approval

 

In many cases, your landlord may approve you hiring a third-party handyman (especially if they’re slow or unavailable). If you choose this route:

 

  1. Get written approval first
  2. Use licensed and insured professionals
  3. Provide a full estimate to the landlord beforehand
  4. Ask them to deduct from rent or reimburse you upon receipt

 

You should always choose us, The Handy Geeks we work with many tenants, landlords, and property managers all over California with a full 5-star rating.


✅ Areas We Serve in California:

 

Los Angeles, San Diego, San Jose, San Francisco, Sacramento, Woodland Hills, West Hills, Burbank, Glendale, Pasadena, Long Beach, Anaheim, Irvine, Santa Ana, Riverside, Fresno, Bakersfield, Stockton, Modesto, Oakland, Chula Vista, Santa Clarita, Oxnard, Escondido, Fontana, Huntington Beach, Thousand Oaks, Palmdale, and more.


FAQ: Tenant Repair Rights in California

 

Can I fix a clogged toilet or drain myself?
Yes, if it’s a minor clog. For serious issues (e.g., backing up, flooding), call your landlord.

 

What if my landlord refuses to fix something serious?
You may have the right to “repair and deduct” or withhold rent — but only after following legal notice procedures.

 

Will I lose my deposit for DIY repairs?
Possibly. If repairs are unapproved or poorly done, the landlord may charge you at move-out. Always ask first.


Final Word: Know Before You Drill

 

Understanding what California renter repair laws allow you to do (and what they don’t) can save you money, stress, and legal trouble.

 

📞 Need help from a licensed handyman with landlord-friendly service?
Call us, The Handy Geeks at (818) 835‑0556 or book your repair online today.