Landlord Response Tenant Habitability Repair Demand
How to Respond to Tenant Habitability Demands
California Landlord Defense Strategies
Tenant Habitability Claims: What Landlords Need to Know
⚠️ Take All Habitability Claims Seriously: Ignoring tenant repair demands can result in rent withholding, repair & deduct, code enforcement complaints, lawsuits, and defenses to eviction. Even if you believe the claim is exaggerated or frivolous, respond promptly and document everything.
Tenant’s Burden of Proof
To prevail on a habitability claim, tenant must prove:
- Substantial Defect: Condition substantially affects habitability (not minor or cosmetic)
- Notice to Landlord: Tenant notified landlord of defect and gave reasonable time to repair
- Landlord’s Duty: Defect is landlord’s responsibility (not caused by tenant or tenant’s guests)
- Unreasonable Delay: Landlord failed to repair within reasonable time after notice
- Damages: Tenant suffered harm (reduced rental value, out-of-pocket costs, health issues)
What Is “Reasonable Time” to Repair?
| Type of Defect | Reasonable Repair Time |
|---|---|
| Emergency (no heat, no water, gas leak, sewage backup) | 24-48 hours |
| Serious health/safety (mold, major leak, electrical hazard) | 3-7 days |
| Non-urgent habitability issue (minor leak, broken appliance) | 14-30 days |
| Cosmetic or non-habitability (chipped paint, squeaky door) | No specific deadline; may wait until lease ends |
Common Tenant Habitability Claims
- Mold & Water Leaks: Roof leaks, plumbing leaks, moisture causing mold growth
- No Heat or AC: Broken HVAC systems during extreme weather
- Plumbing Failures: No hot water, clogged drains, sewage backups
- Pest Infestations: Rats, roaches, bedbugs due to structural defects
- Electrical Hazards: Exposed wiring, non-functional outlets, inadequate lighting
- Broken Windows/Doors: Security issues, weather infiltration
- Code Violations: Defects identified by city building/health department inspections
Consequences of Ignoring Habitability Claims
Tenant Remedies If You Don’t Respond:
- Repair & Deduct: Tenant hires contractor, makes repairs, deducts cost from rent
- Rent Withholding: Tenant reduces or stops paying rent until repairs made
- Code Enforcement: City inspection, violation notices, fines, mandatory repairs
- Lawsuit: Tenant sues for breach of warranty, seeks rent reduction, damages, attorney fees
- Eviction Defense: If you try to evict, tenant asserts habitability defense and counterclaim
- Retaliation Claim: If you evict within 180 days of complaint, tenant claims illegal retaliation
Defense Strategies for Landlords
1. Challenge the Severity: Not a Substantial Defect
Argument: The alleged defect is minor, cosmetic, or does not substantially affect habitability.
Examples:
- Chipped paint, minor wall scuffs
- Small cracks in non-structural areas
- Squeaky door hinges
- Minor aesthetic issues (faded flooring, worn cabinet handles)
- Tenant’s personal preference (wants different paint color, dislikes appliance brand)
Legal Standard: Civil Code § 1941.1 requires defects that “substantially lack” required features. Minor inconveniences or cosmetic issues do not meet this standard.
2. Lack of Notice: Tenant Never Told You
Argument: Tenant failed to provide proper written notice of the defect, so you had no opportunity to repair.
Defense Elements:
- Tenant never reported the issue via email, text, maintenance portal, or written letter
- Oral complaints (if any) were vague or insufficient to put you on notice
- Defect was not obvious or visible during routine inspections
- Tenant waited months to report, exacerbating the problem
Best Evidence: Your maintenance request logs showing no repair request for the alleged issue, your emails/texts with tenant showing no mention of the problem, inspection reports showing unit in good condition.
3. Tenant Caused the Damage
Argument: The defect was caused by tenant’s misuse, neglect, or failure to take reasonable precautions.
Examples:
- Mold from Tenant’s Actions: Tenant failed to use bathroom exhaust fans, left windows closed preventing ventilation, failed to report minor leak that became major mold issue
- Plumbing Clogs: Tenant flushed inappropriate items (wipes, feminine products, diapers)
- Broken Fixtures: Tenant’s misuse or rough handling broke appliances, windows, or doors
- Pest Infestations: Tenant’s poor housekeeping (leaving food out, not taking out trash) attracted pests
Legal Principle: Landlords are not responsible for defects caused by tenant’s unreasonable or improper use (Civil Code § 1941.2). Tenant has duty to keep unit clean and use facilities properly.
4. Repairs Were Made Promptly
Argument: You made repairs within a reasonable time after receiving notice.
Evidence to Gather:
- Timeline showing date tenant reported issue and date repair was completed
- Invoices/receipts from contractors proving repairs were made
- Photos showing before and after repair
- Communication with tenant confirming repair was completed and tenant was satisfied
- Explanation of any delay (e.g., needed to order custom parts, weather prevented outdoor work, contractor availability)
5. Tenant Refused Access for Repairs
Argument: Tenant denied you access to the unit to inspect or make repairs, preventing you from fulfilling your duty.
Examples:
- Tenant refused multiple scheduled repair appointments
- Tenant did not respond to your requests to schedule access
- Tenant changed locks without providing key
- Tenant threatened you or contractor, making entry unsafe
⚠️ Entry Notice Required: Even in emergencies, landlords should provide reasonable notice (24 hours for non-emergencies, shorter notice for emergencies) before entering. Document all entry requests and tenant’s refusals.
6. Defect Is Minor Compared to Rent
Argument: Even if defect exists, it does not significantly reduce rental value.
Application:
- Tenant withheld 100% of rent, but defect (e.g., broken bathroom fan) reduces value by only 5-10%
- Tenant demanded full rent abatement for issue affecting only one room in large house
- Defect was promptly repaired, so any reduced value lasted only days, not months
7. Tenant Waived Habitability Rights
Limited Application: Tenant expressly agreed to accept property “as-is” or agreed to make certain repairs themselves.
⚠️ Waiver Is Very Limited: California law prohibits waiver of basic habitability rights (Civil Code § 1942.1). “As-is” clauses are generally unenforceable for habitability issues. Only narrow waivers (e.g., tenant agreed to paint interior, tenant taking property in exchange for reduced rent) may be upheld.
8. Retaliation or Ulterior Motive
Argument: Tenant fabricated or exaggerated habitability claims to avoid paying rent, retaliate for eviction notice, or gain leverage in unrelated dispute.
Evidence:
- Tenant only raised habitability claims after you served eviction notice for nonpayment
- Tenant’s complaint includes minor issues they never mentioned before
- Tenant threatened to “make your life difficult” if you didn’t reduce rent or allow lease violation
- Tenant is behind on rent and using habitability claim as excuse not to pay
How to Draft Your Response Letter
Step 1: Assess the Claim
Before responding, evaluate:
- Legitimacy: Is the defect real and substantial, or is tenant exaggerating?
- Your Responsibility: Is this your duty to repair, or did tenant cause it?
- Urgency: Is this a health/safety emergency requiring immediate action?
- Prior Notice: Did tenant properly report this issue before?
- Cost: What will it cost to repair?
- Litigation Risk: If you don’t repair, will tenant sue, withhold rent, or file code complaint?
Step 2: Inspect the Property Immediately
Why: You need firsthand knowledge of the claimed defects before responding.
- Give tenant 24-hour written notice of inspection (email + text is fine for quick notice)
- Bring camera to document condition
- Bring contractor if specialized assessment needed (e.g., mold inspection, structural engineer)
- Take detailed notes and photos
Step 3: Choose Your Response Strategy
| Scenario | Response Strategy |
|---|---|
| Legitimate issue, your responsibility | Acknowledge, apologize, commit to repair with specific timeline |
| Partially legitimate (some issues valid, others not) | Agree to repair valid issues; refute invalid claims with evidence |
| Minor/cosmetic issue | Explain it doesn’t affect habitability; offer to address at lease end or during turnover |
| Tenant caused the damage | Cite lease provision; state tenant is responsible for repair costs; demand payment or state you’ll deduct from deposit |
| Never received notice before | State this is first you’re hearing of issue; commit to inspect and repair if warranted |
| Already repaired | Provide proof repairs were completed (invoices, photos); invite tenant to confirm |
| Frivolous/retaliatory claim | Refute with evidence; state you will not be intimidated; continue with lawful lease enforcement |
Step 4: Response Letter Components
| Component | What to Include |
|---|---|
| Opening | Acknowledge receipt of tenant’s letter/complaint |
| Response to Each Claim | Address each alleged defect individually; agree, partially agree, or refute |
| Your Position | State which issues you will repair, which are tenant’s responsibility, which are not habitability issues |
| Repair Plan | For issues you’ll repair: specific timeline, contractor name (if known), steps involved |
| Access Request | Request tenant provide access on specific dates/times for inspection and repair |
| Tenant’s Responsibility | Remind tenant of duties (cooperate with repairs, provide access, refrain from causing further damage) |
| Warning Re: Rent Withholding | State that withholding rent or repair & deduct without proper legal basis violates lease and may result in eviction |
| Documentation | Attach inspection photos, contractor estimates, prior correspondence showing you were responsive |
Step 5: Delivery
- Email + Certified Mail: Send immediately via email for fast delivery; follow up with certified mail for proof
- Keep Copies: Retain copies of all correspondence, photos, invoices, and receipts
Step 6: Follow Through on Repairs
Most Important: If you committed to making repairs, do it promptly and document completion. Failure to follow through after promising repairs strengthens tenant’s case.
- Schedule repairs within the timeline you stated
- Keep tenant updated on progress
- After completion, send confirmation letter with photos and receipts
- Request tenant sign off that repairs are complete and satisfactory
Sample Response Letters
Sample 1: Acknowledging Valid Claims & Committing to Repair
[Your Name / Property Management Company]
[Address]
[Phone]
[Email]
[Date]
[Tenant Name]
[Rental Unit Address]
RE: Response to Your Repair Request Dated [Date]
Dear [Tenant Name]:
I am writing in response to your letter dated [Date] regarding repair issues at [Rental Address].
Thank you for bringing these concerns to my attention. I take my responsibility to maintain the property seriously, and I want to address these issues promptly.
RESPONSE TO YOUR CLAIMS:
1. ROOF LEAK & WATER DAMAGE: I acknowledge that there is a roof leak in the master bedroom causing water stains and potential mold. I apologize for the delay in addressing this issue. I have scheduled a licensed roofing contractor to inspect and repair the roof on [Date]. The contractor will also assess any interior water damage and mold growth. If mold remediation is needed, I will hire a certified mold remediation specialist.
Timeline: Roof repair by [Date]; interior repairs and mold remediation (if needed) by [Date].
2. PLUMBING LEAK UNDER SINK: I will have a licensed plumber repair the bathroom sink leak on [Date]. The plumber will also inspect the vanity cabinet and flooring for water damage and make any necessary repairs.
Timeline: Plumbing repair by [Date].
3. BROKEN WINDOW: I will have the broken bedroom window replaced by [Date].
REQUEST FOR ACCESS:
To complete these repairs, I will need access to the unit on the following dates:
• [Date] at [Time]: Roofing contractor inspection
• [Date] at [Time]: Plumber
• [Date] at [Time]: Window replacement
• [Date] at [Time]: Mold remediation (if needed)
Please confirm that these dates/times work for you, or propose alternative times.
NEXT STEPS:
I will keep you updated on the progress of these repairs. Once all work is complete, I will provide you with copies of invoices and ask you to sign off confirming that the repairs have been completed satisfactorily.
I apologize for any inconvenience these issues have caused. Please feel free to contact me at [Phone] or [Email] if you have any questions or concerns.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Name]
Sample 2: Refuting Claims (Tenant-Caused Damage)
[Your Name / Property Management Company]
[Address]
[Phone]
[Email]
[Date]
[Tenant Name]
[Rental Unit Address]
RE: Response to Your Demand Letter Dated [Date]
Dear [Tenant Name]:
I am responding to your letter dated [Date] in which you claim that the rental unit at [Address] has uninhabitable conditions and demand repairs.
I have reviewed your claims and inspected the property. Here is my response to each issue you raised:
1. MOLD GROWTH IN BATHROOM: You claim there is toxic mold in the bathroom caused by a plumbing leak. I inspected the bathroom on [Date] and found minor surface mold on the shower tile grout and ceiling, which is common in bathrooms due to moisture from showering.
This mold growth is not caused by any plumbing leak or structural defect. The bathroom exhaust fan is functional, and there are no leaks in the plumbing or roof. The mold is due to inadequate ventilation during and after showers.
Under your lease agreement (§ [X]), you are required to “use reasonable care to maintain proper ventilation in the unit, including using exhaust fans during showers and opening windows to prevent moisture buildup.”
This is not a habitability defect that I am required to repair. You are responsible for cleaning the mold using standard bathroom cleaning products and ensuring proper ventilation going forward. I have attached instructions for cleaning bathroom mold.
2. CLOGGED DRAIN: You state the kitchen sink drain is clogged. On [Date], my plumber inspected the drain and found it was clogged with food waste and grease. The plumber cleared the clog, but this issue was caused by improper use of the drain.
Your lease (§ [X]) prohibits pouring grease or food waste down drains. The cost of this repair is $[Amount], which I am deducting from your security deposit as permitted by Civil Code § 1950.5.
To prevent future clogs, please use the garbage disposal properly and do not pour grease down the drain.
3. BROKEN WINDOW LOCK: You claim the bedroom window lock is broken, creating a security risk. I inspected the window on [Date] and found that the lock is functional. I demonstrated this to you during the inspection, and you acknowledged the lock works.
This claim is without merit.
CONCLUSION:
None of the issues you raised constitute habitability defects for which I am responsible. The mold and clogged drain were caused by your failure to properly maintain and use the unit. The window lock is not broken.
I have fulfilled my obligations under California law and the lease agreement. I expect you to continue paying rent in full and on time.
If you believe I am mistaken, please provide specific evidence (e.g., photos, contractor reports) supporting your claims.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Name]
Attachments:
– Photos from inspection dated [Date]
– Plumber invoice for drain clearing
Sample 3: Partial Agreement (Some Claims Valid, Others Not)
[Your Name / Property Management Company]
[Address]
[Phone]
[Email]
[Date]
[Tenant Name]
[Rental Unit Address]
RE: Response to Repair Demand Letter Dated [Date]
Dear [Tenant Name]:
I am responding to your letter dated [Date] regarding alleged habitability defects at [Rental Address].
I have inspected the property and reviewed your claims. Some of your concerns are valid, and I will address them promptly. Others are either minor, cosmetic, or your responsibility.
VALID CLAIMS – I WILL REPAIR:
1. NO HOT WATER: I acknowledge the water heater is malfunctioning and you have no hot water. This is a serious habitability issue. I have scheduled a licensed plumber to repair or replace the water heater on [Date]. If a replacement is needed, it will be completed by [Date].
2. BROKEN FRONT DOOR LOCK: I agree this is a security concern. I will have a locksmith repair or replace the lock by [Date].
MINOR ISSUES – NOT HABITABILITY DEFECTS:
3. CHIPPED PAINT IN LIVING ROOM: The paint chips you photographed are minor cosmetic wear and do not affect habitability. I will address this during the next scheduled painting (typically between tenancies). This is not an urgent repair.
4. LOOSE CABINET HANDLE: This is a minor issue. I can tighten or replace the handle during a routine maintenance visit, but it is not a habitability defect requiring immediate attention.
TENANT RESPONSIBILITY:
5. KITCHEN SINK CLOG: As I explained in my prior email, the kitchen sink clog was caused by improper disposal of food waste and grease down the drain. This is your responsibility under the lease (§ [X]). The plumber already cleared the clog on [Date], and I deducted the cost from your security deposit as permitted by law.
6. DIRTY CARPET: You demand I replace the carpet, claiming it is “filthy and uninhabitable.” I inspected the carpet and found it has normal dirt and staining consistent with regular use. The carpet is not torn, damaged, or defective. Under the lease (§ [X]), you are responsible for routine cleaning, including vacuuming and spot-cleaning the carpet. This is not a habitability issue.
TIMELINE & ACCESS:
I will complete repairs to the water heater and door lock as stated above. Please confirm you will provide access on [Date] at [Time] for these repairs.
RENT PAYMENT:
While I am addressing the valid habitability issues (hot water and door lock), you are still obligated to pay rent. Any rent withholding or “repair and deduct” for the minor or tenant-responsibility issues listed above would violate the lease and California law.
Please contact me if you have questions.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Name]
Defending Habitability Claims in Litigation
When Tenants Sue or Assert Habitability Defense in Eviction
Habitability disputes often escalate to litigation in two contexts:
- Tenant Files Lawsuit: Tenant sues for breach of warranty of habitability seeking rent reduction, damages, attorney fees
- Eviction Defense: You file unlawful detainer for nonpayment; tenant asserts habitability defense and counterclaim
Discovery & Evidence
Evidence You Need:
- Move-In Inspection Report: Shows unit was in good condition when tenant took possession
- Maintenance Records: All repair requests, work orders, invoices, showing you were responsive to legitimate issues
- Communications: Emails, texts, letters between you and tenant showing tenant never reported alleged issues (or reported and you fixed)
- Photos: Before, during, and after repair photos; photos showing tenant caused damage
- Contractor Testimony: Have contractors testify about nature of defects, cause, and whether/when repairs were made
- Expert Testimony: Mold inspectors, structural engineers, licensed contractors can testify whether conditions were truly uninhabitable
Evidence Tenant Will Use:
- Photos/videos of alleged defects
- Copies of repair requests you allegedly ignored
- Testimony from code enforcement inspectors
- Medical records if tenant claims health issues from mold, lead, etc.
- Expert testimony from contractors estimating repair costs or assessing habitability
Defenses to Assert
| Defense | Elements to Prove |
|---|---|
| Tenant Never Notified You | No written notice; no emails/texts; tenant cannot prove they told you |
| You Made Timely Repairs | Timeline showing repair completed within reasonable time; invoices and photos proving completion |
| Tenant Caused Damage | Expert testimony that damage resulted from tenant’s misuse, neglect, or failure to report promptly |
| Defect Is Minor/Cosmetic | Expert testimony that defect does not substantially affect habitability |
| Tenant Refused Access | Evidence you attempted to schedule repairs but tenant denied access |
| Tenant’s Claim Is Retaliatory | Prove tenant only raised habitability claims after you served eviction notice or after dispute over unrelated issue |
Rent Reduction Calculation
If court finds habitability breach, it will reduce rent proportionally:
- 100% Reduction (Uninhabitable): No heat, no water, major sewage/mold making unit unlivable
- 50-75% Reduction: Serious defects (major leak, broken HVAC, pest infestation)
- 20-40% Reduction: Moderate defects (minor leaks, some mold, broken appliances)
- 5-15% Reduction: Minor defects (cosmetic issues, small repair needs)
Calculation Example: Tenant rents unit for $2,000/month. Roof leak causes mold in one bedroom (out of 3 bedrooms). Court finds 30% rent reduction is appropriate for 3-month period until repair completed. Tenant is entitled to $1,800 rent refund ($2,000 × 30% × 3 months).
Attorney Fees
Most residential leases include attorney fee clauses making them reciprocal (Civil Code § 1717):
- If tenant prevails, you may have to pay their attorney fees
- If you prevail, tenant may have to pay yours
- “Prevails” means the party who obtained a net victory (not necessarily 100% win)
⚠️ Settlement Considerations: Given the risk of paying tenant’s attorney fees if you lose, many landlords prefer to settle habitability disputes rather than litigate. Settlement may involve rent credit, agreement to make repairs, or mutual release.
Preventing Future Habitability Claims
- Responsive Communication: Respond to all repair requests promptly in writing
- Document Everything: Keep detailed maintenance logs, invoices, photos, emails
- Routine Inspections: Conduct annual or semi-annual inspections (with proper notice) to identify issues before they become serious
- Tenant Move-In/Move-Out Reports: Detailed inspection reports with photos at start and end of tenancy
- Clear Lease Terms: Specify tenant’s maintenance responsibilities (changing HVAC filters, using exhaust fans, promptly reporting leaks)
- Hire Licensed Contractors: Use licensed, insured professionals for all significant repairs
Attorney Services for Landlords
Facing a Tenant Habitability Claim?
I represent residential landlords in habitability disputes, from demand letter responses to litigation defense. I help landlords assess claims, develop defense strategies, and protect their interests in court.
How I Can Help
- Claim Evaluation: I review tenant’s habitability complaint and assess the strength of their case and your defenses
- Response Letter Drafting: I draft professional responses addressing each claim and setting forth your position
- Inspection & Evidence Gathering: I coordinate property inspections, hire experts (mold inspectors, contractors), and document conditions
- Repair Strategy: I advise which repairs to make immediately, which can wait, and which are tenant’s responsibility
- Litigation Defense: I defend you in lawsuits filed by tenants and in eviction cases where tenant asserts habitability counterclaim
- Code Enforcement Response: I represent you in dealings with city/county building departments and contest violation notices
- Settlement Negotiation: I negotiate favorable settlements avoiding costly litigation
Common Scenarios I Handle
- Tenant sent demand letter claiming mold, leaks, or code violations and threatening to withhold rent
- Tenant used repair & deduct and you believe it was improper
- Tenant withheld rent citing habitability issues, and you need to evict
- You filed eviction for nonpayment, and tenant asserted habitability defense and counterclaim
- Tenant filed lawsuit seeking rent reduction, damages, and attorney fees
- City code enforcement issued violation notice based on tenant complaint
- Tenant claims you retaliated by evicting them after they requested repairs
Defense Strategy Development
I develop customized defense strategies based on your situation:
- Acknowledge & Repair: If claim is legitimate, make repairs quickly to minimize damages and attorney fees
- Challenge Notice: Prove tenant never properly notified you, so you had no opportunity to repair
- Tenant-Caused Damage: Establish tenant’s misuse, neglect, or failure to report caused or exacerbated defects
- Minor Defects: Demonstrate alleged issues are cosmetic or minor and do not substantially affect habitability
- Timely Repairs: Prove you made repairs within reasonable time after notice
- Refused Access: Show tenant denied access for repairs
Litigation Defense
If habitability dispute goes to trial:
- I gather and present evidence (inspection reports, contractor testimony, maintenance records)
- I cross-examine tenant and their witnesses/experts
- I argue legal defenses (lack of notice, tenant caused damage, minor defects)
- I seek to minimize rent reduction damages and avoid adverse attorney fee award
- I defend against retaliation claims
Why Hire an Attorney Early
Early Intervention Saves Money: Responding properly to initial habitability demand can prevent litigation. A well-drafted response letter, prompt repairs, and documentation often resolve disputes without lawsuit. If litigation is unavoidable, having attorney-guided evidence from the start strengthens your defense.
When to Consult an Attorney
Contact an attorney if:
- Tenant sent formal demand letter alleging habitability violations
- Tenant threatened to withhold rent, use repair & deduct, or file lawsuit
- Tenant filed complaint with code enforcement
- You filed eviction and tenant asserted habitability defense
- Tenant filed lawsuit against you for breach of warranty of habitability
- You’re unsure whether claimed defects are your responsibility or tenant-caused
- Repairs would be very costly and you want legal assessment before proceeding
Schedule a Call
Book a call to discuss your habitability dispute. I’ll review the tenant’s claims, assess your defenses, and advise on the best strategy for resolution.
Contact Information
Email: owner@terms.law
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, if there is any legitimate habitability issue. Even if tenant exaggerated (e.g., called small leak “major flooding”), make the repair to eliminate tenant’s defense. You can dispute the severity and resulting damages while still fixing the underlying problem. Ignoring legitimate issues gives tenant stronger claim.
Yes, but tenant will assert habitability defense. If tenant proves unit was uninhabitable and they gave proper notice, court may find their rent withholding was justified. You would lose the eviction and potentially owe damages and attorney fees. Before evicting, assess whether tenant’s habitability claim has merit. If it does, make repairs first; if it doesn’t, proceed with eviction but be prepared to prove defects were minor, tenant-caused, or you made timely repairs.
Lack of prior notice is a strong defense. Landlord is not liable for defects they don’t know about. If tenant never reported issue via email, text, phone, or maintenance portal, you had no opportunity to repair. In your response, state this is the first you’re hearing of the issue and commit to inspect/repair if warranted. Tenant cannot claim you breached warranty of habitability if you were never notified.
Evidence: (1) move-in inspection report showing unit was in good condition; (2) photos showing damage is consistent with misuse/neglect (e.g., food waste in clogged drain, lack of ventilation causing mold); (3) contractor/expert testimony that damage resulted from tenant’s actions; (4) lease provisions requiring tenant to properly use facilities and report issues promptly. If tenant failed to report minor issue that became major (e.g., small leak became big mold problem), you can argue tenant’s delay exacerbated the damage.
Possibly. Most residential leases have attorney fee clauses. Under Civil Code § 1717, these clauses are reciprocal—if either party prevails in litigation, they can recover attorney fees. If tenant sues and obtains rent reduction or damages, court may award their attorney fees (which can be $10,000-$50,000+ depending on case complexity). This is why many landlords prefer to settle habitability disputes rather than litigate.
Not immediately, and be careful about retaliation. Civil Code § 1942.5 prohibits retaliating against tenants who exercise habitability rights by raising rent within 180 days of complaint. In AB 1482-covered properties, annual rent increases are capped at 5% + CPI (max 10%). In rent-controlled jurisdictions, increases are limited by local ordinance. Even where allowed, raising rent soon after tenant complained about habitability may be viewed as retaliatory.