ATX Untangled.

We deal with the city so you don't have to.

Tell us what happened. We fill out the official city form, you read it and approve it, and the agency's own receipt proves it is done.

Opening your page…

Reload this page

Resident guide · Checked against the source

Austin landlord won't fix a serious problem? Your options

Document the condition, notify in writing, then report to Austin 311 or Austin Code - you can report anonymously, and retaliation is prohibited.

Updated . Checked against the official source linked below.

By the ATX Untangled Research Desk. Researched and verified against Austin city code and the official sources linked below.

Short answer

When an Austin landlord will not fix a serious health or safety condition, the official channel is Austin 311: online, in the app, or at 512-974-2000. A code officer can inspect and order repairs, and you can report without giving your name. Notify the landlord in writing first and keep a dated record of the condition and every response. Texas law prohibits retaliation for a good-faith code report, but do not withhold rent or deduct repairs without individualized legal advice.

Who this is for

Austin renters dealing with a serious health or safety problem - no AC in heat, no hot water, mold, sewage, broken locks, electrical or plumbing failures - whose landlord has not fixed it after being told.

Next steps

  1. Document the condition with photos, dates, temperatures, and how it affects health or safety.
  2. Notify the landlord in writing and keep a dated copy of the notice.
  3. If it stays unfixed, report to Austin 311 online, in the app, or at 512-974-2000, and keep the service-request number.
  4. You can report anonymously; a code officer inspects and can issue a notice of violation with a deadline.
  5. Save every response; if the problem continues, the 311 history backs escalation and legal options.

Common mistakes to avoid

  • Withholding rent or deducting repairs without individualized legal advice
  • Reporting by phone call only, with no written record or request number
  • Waiting weeks to document a dangerous condition
  • Assuming a code report exposes your name - anonymous reports are accepted

Official sources

Checked September 9, 2026. Recheck the official page monthly and when the official page changes.

Open the tenant habitability route

Related resident guides

Browse every Austin resident guide

ATX Untangled is independent and does not determine eligibility or provide legal advice.