What might happen if a landlord fails to maintain a habitable property?

A landlord has a legal obligation to maintain a habitable property, which means ensuring that the premises are safe, clean, and suitable for living. If a landlord fails to fulfill this responsibility, they can indeed face legal actions from tenants. Tenants may choose to pursue remedies such as withholding rent, seeking repairs through legal channels, or even terminating the lease agreement. This legal recourse is designed to protect tenants from unsafe or unsanitary living conditions and holds landlords accountable for their obligations.

In contrast, the other options reflect misunderstandings of tenant-landlord dynamics. Gratitude from tenants is unlikely when they are living in substandard conditions. Property values typically do not increase when a property is poorly maintained; in fact, neglect can lead to depreciation. Asserting that it is solely the tenant's responsibility overlooks the legal standards set for landlords regarding property maintenance and habitability requirements.