Renting a home should come with a basic guarantee of livability—working electricity, a safe environment, and a landlord who takes care of essential repairs. But what happens when your landlord ignores serious issues like a prolonged power outage or mold infestation?
If you’re in Israel and facing these problems, here’s what you need to know about your rights and how to take action.
🔌 No Power in Your Apartment? Here’s What to Do
Electricity is a basic necessity, and your landlord is responsible for maintaining it. If your power has been out due to construction work done by your landlord, and they have failed to restore it in a timely manner, this is a violation of your tenant rights.
Steps to Take When the Power Is Out:
- Document the Issue: Take photos and videos of the power outage, and note the date and time when it started. Keep any messages you’ve sent to your landlord about the problem.
- Send a Formal Notice: If your landlord hasn’t responded, send a written request (email, text, or registered mail) demanding a solution within a reasonable timeframe.
- Check Your Lease Agreement: Look for clauses that mention the landlord’s responsibility for electrical maintenance.
- Allow Reasonable Time for Repairs: Landlords must fix essential services quickly. If they delay, you may have grounds to take legal action.
- Seek Legal Advice or Contact Authorities: If your landlord refuses to fix the issue, you can consult a legal professional or report the issue to your local municipality.
☣️ Mold in Your Apartment? Know Your Rights
Mold is more than just an eyesore—it’s a serious health hazard. It can cause respiratory issues, allergies, and other medical problems, especially for children, the elderly, and people with pre-existing conditions.
Who Is Responsible for Fixing Mold?
In Israel, the landlord is responsible for providing a livable apartment. That includes ensuring the property is free from hazardous conditions like excessive mold. If mold is caused by structural issues, water leaks, or poor ventilation (which are beyond the tenant’s control), it’s the landlord’s duty to fix it.
How to Handle a Mold Problem in Your Rental:
- Take Photos & Gather Evidence: Document the mold growth, noting how long it has been present. If you experience health issues, keep medical records.
- Notify Your Landlord in Writing: Send a formal request asking for repairs. Specify a deadline for action.
- Understand Your Rights: If mold makes the apartment unlivable, you may have the right to request a rent reduction, repairs, or even termination of your lease.
- Hire a Professional if Necessary: If your landlord refuses to act, consider getting an independent assessment from a mold expert to strengthen your case.
- Report to Local Authorities: Some municipalities have health regulations that require landlords to fix severe mold issues.
📌 Can You Withhold Rent or Break Your Lease?
If your landlord refuses to fix essential issues like power outages or mold, you may have legal options, including:
- Withholding or Reducing Rent: In certain cases, tenants may be allowed to withhold rent until repairs are made. However, this should be done with legal guidance to avoid penalties.
- Repair and Deduct: Some tenants choose to pay for repairs themselves and deduct the cost from their rent. This is risky without legal advice.
- Lease Termination: If your apartment is uninhabitable, you may have the right to terminate your lease without penalties.
⚖️ When to Seek Legal Help
If your landlord refuses to cooperate, a legal expert can help you take further action. In extreme cases, you may be entitled to compensation for damages or be able to take the matter to court.
Final Thoughts
Dealing with a landlord who ignores serious issues like power outages and mold can be frustrating, but you have rights as a tenant in Israel. The key is to document everything, communicate clearly, and take legal steps if necessary. Don’t wait—your health and safety are too important to risk.
Would you like help drafting a formal letter to your landlord? Let me know!
