Landlord won't fix AC in El Paso: Tenant rights

Quick facts	Answer
Cost range	Capacitor replacement: $150–$400
Time	Landlord presumed 7 days; 3 days for AC repair-and-deduct
Who's qualified	Ask for proof of insurance, relevant certifications (e.g., ASE for auto repair), and any license your state or city requires.

What should I do today if the AC is out?

Send your landlord written notice describing the problem and the date you noticed it. Keep a copy and any texts or emails. Texas law requires written notice before repair-and-deduct remedies apply.

Can I withhold rent after three days?

Texas does not give tenants a general right to stop paying rent. You must follow the statutory notice-and-repair steps and stay current on rent to keep repair-and-deduct remedies. Withholding rent can put your tenancy at risk.

How do I repair and deduct the cost?

Under Texas Property Code 92.0561, a qualifying tenant may hire an independent contractor, get a receipt, and deduct the cost from a later rent payment. The deduction may not exceed one month's rent or $500, whichever is greater. Repairs must comply with building codes, including a permit when required.

What should I check before hiring a pro?

Ask the pro for proof of licence and insurance before work begins. Get a written quote and an itemized receipt. The work must be done by an independent contractor, not you, family, or your employer.

Why does the urgency matter in El Paso?

The National Weather Service lists June average maximum temperature at 97.1°F and July at 95.8°F. Summer heat makes AC failures a health-and-safety issue faster than in milder climates.

What to do next

Send written notice to your landlord today and keep a dated copy.
Document the indoor temperature with a thermometer and photos.
Ask any pro for proof of licence and insurance before work starts.
Request an itemized receipt so you can deduct the cost later, capped at $500 or one month's rent.
Call (915) 286-7051 or email [email protected] for a free quote from an independent, licensed, insured AC repair contractor.

El Paso Air is a free referral service: an independent contractor does the work and may pay us a referral fee. You never pay us anything.

Quick answers

How many days until landlord must fix AC?

Texas generally presumes 7 days is a reasonable time to make repairs after notice. For inadequate AC repair-and-deduct, the landlord must fail to fix it within 3 days of your notice of intent to repair.

Can I break lease due to no AC?

The Attorney General says a tenant who follows the required procedures may be entitled to end the lease. Follow the statutory steps first, because the rules are strict.

Where to file tenant complaint in El Paso?

Start by documenting your written notice and the landlord's response. Local legal aid resources for tenants can explain your options, and the Texas Attorney General's Renter's Rights guidance covers next steps.

Is AC considered essential in Texas law?

Texas has no state law that specifically guarantees air conditioning. A landlord must still repair a condition that materially affects the physical health or safety of an ordinary tenant under Section 92.052.