Understanding Essential Services: Plumbing Rights for Tenants in Evanston
As a tenant in Evanston, it's important to understand your rights when it comes to plumbing in your rental unit. The Evanston Residential Landlord and Tenant Ordinance (RLTO) sets out specific requirements that landlords must meet when it comes to maintaining plumbing systems in their buildings.
- Under the RLTO, landlords are responsible for providing tenants with plumbing facilities that are in good working order and free from leaks, blockages, and other defects. This includes providing working toilets, sinks, and shower or bathtub facilities. If a plumbing issue arises, tenants should notify their landlord immediately and provide a reasonable amount of time for the landlord to make necessary repairs.
- The RLTO also requires landlords to provide hot and cold running water at all times. If a tenant experiences a lack of hot water, the landlord must provide hot water within 7 days of being notified of the problem. If the landlord fails to make necessary repairs, a tenant can report housing code violations to the city of Evanston by calling 847-448-8207 or emailing propertymaintenance@cityofevanston.org and requesting a property inspection.
- Tenants should also be aware that they are responsible for maintaining the cleanliness of their plumbing fixtures. If a plumbing issue is caused by the tenant's negligence or misuse, the tenant may be held responsible for the cost of repairs.
Tenants cannot immediately withhold rent to force their landlord to make necessary plumbing repairs. Doing so can result in legal action being taken against the tenant. Instead, tenants should follow the proper legal procedures and channels for filing complaints and getting the issue resolved.
In conclusion, as a tenant in Evanston, you have the right to plumbing facilities that are in good working order and free from defects. Be sure to familiarize yourself with the RLTO and notify your landlord immediately if a plumbing issue arises. If necessary repairs are not made in a timely manner, you have the right to file a complaint with the city.
The above article provides information about legal issues but is not the same as legal advice. Legal advice is when a lawyer applies the law to your specific situation. The information in this article does not replace the advice or representation of a licensed attorney. Law Center for Better Housing cannot guarantee the accuracy or completeness of the information in this article and is not responsible for any consequences that may result from using it. You should consult with a licensed attorney to ensure the information in this article is appropriate for your specific situation. Using the information in this article does not create a relationship between Law Center for Better Housing and you as your attorney.