Who should pay if the water and electricity in the rental house are broken? 3 legal self-help methods if the landlord doesn’t handle it
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Who should pay if the water and electricity in the rental house are broken? 3 legal self-help methods if the landlord doesn’t handle it

Who is responsible for the damage to the house, the landlord and the tenant?

According to Article 429 of the Civil Code, unless otherwise agreed in the contract, the landlord shall in principle be responsible for repairs to the leased property. If the landlord delays repairs, the tenant can make repairs on his own in accordance with legal procedures and request reimbursement, or it can be deducted from the rent.

🇹🇼 Expat Living Note: Home Repairs in Taiwan

If you are an international resident renting an apartment in Taipei, New Taipei, or anywhere in Taiwan:

  • Voltage & Electrical Safety: Taiwan standard household voltage is 110V (60Hz). Do not plug 220V imported European/UK appliances directly without a certified step-up transformer.
  • Plumbing Terminology: Local plumbers are called 水電 (Shuǐdiàn) and handle both water and electrical repairs.
  • Landlord Obligations: Under Article 429 of Taiwan Civil Code, landlords are legally responsible for repairing natural wear and tear (such as hidden wall pipe leaks, water heater faults, or booster pump failures) unless explicitly waived in your lease.