In California, you are allowed to spend up to one month's rent on paying for repairs [I assume this would qualify] if after giving notice the landlord does not within a reasonable period of time makes the repair [give notice by a certified letter]. You can also complain to the local health department. But you have to be careful, as the landlord may then try to terminate the lease or evict you.
Answered on Sep 15th, 2015 at 10:22 AM