Utah Repair Request Letter
Utah landlords are required by law to make necessary repairs in a reasonable amount after the tenant has made a repair request in writing. Utah tenants are required to request the needed maintenance and repair issues in a timely manner and with a written repair or maintenance request(by Utah law all requests must be made in writing).
The Fit Premises Act in Utah is the law that addresses housing conditions and stipulates that a landlord must provide a safe and livable rental unit. Examples of violations include no hot water, faulty electrical systems, sanitation problems, no heat, air conditioning issues, deficient plumbing systems, broken toilets, common areas that are unsafe or not sanitary and the maintenance of appliances that have specified in the lease agreement. Even if a problem was pre-existing before the tenant moved in the landlord bears responsibility for fixing. And even if issues arise due to normal wear and tear, the tenant is responsible for making sure your landlord is made aware. A tenant must be not have overdue rent when making a request that references the Utah Fit Premises Act.
As a tenant you are responsible for the reasonable care of your apartment and any common areas. You are also responsible if there any damages caused by you or anyone you are responsible for, which includes guests and pets.
Our Repair Request Letter for Utah Tenants makes it easy to list the issues, provide details, firmly indicate the law or ordinance being violated, and tactfully requests the situation be resolved in a manner that precludes any further legal actions on your part.
It is also highly recommended that this letter be sent through registered or certified mail, orthe hand deliver to the landlord directly or at their home or place of business.
Can tenants "repair and deduct" in Utah?
Yes, in Utah a tenant can deduct the cost of legally required repairs from the rent if the landlord has failed to fix the issues after a written request was made. However, this can be risky as there are specific timeframes and amounts(no more than two months rent) that can be deducted, receipts that need to be provided(within 5 days of rent due date), and a landlord can claim the repairs were unnecessary and begin an eviction process against you for not paying rent. Losing an eviction case can make it more difficult to rent housing in the future. That's why well written letter with the law clearly spelled out is the better option for most situations.
