I understand your concern about the AC issue, especially with young children living in the house during hot weather. Here are some steps you can take to try to get your landlord to address the problem promptly:
Communicate the urgency: Reach out to your landlord immediately and inform them about the situation. Emphasize that you have young children in the house, and the heat poses a health risk to them. Communicate in writing, such as an email or text message, so you have a record of your communication.
Know your rights: Familiarize yourself with tenant rights and landlord responsibilities regarding repairs in Tennessee. In Tennessee, landlords are generally required to provide habitable living conditions, including functional heating and cooling systems.
Follow up in writing: If you've already reported the AC issue orally, follow up with a written notice requesting the repairs. Mention the initial date you reported the problem, the current date, and the potential health risks to your children due to the extreme heat.
Check your lease agreement: Review your lease agreement to see if there are any specific clauses related to repairs or timelines for addressing maintenance issues.
Notify authorities if necessary: If your landlord is unresponsive and the AC remains unrepaired, you can contact your local housing authority or tenant's union to seek advice and assistance.
Document the issue: Take photos or videos of the faulty AC unit and any adverse conditions caused by the lack of cooling. This documentation can serve as evidence if the situation escalates.
Temporary solutions: While waiting for repairs, consider using fans or portable air conditioning units to help cool down the living space.
Escalate the issue: If your landlord continues to ignore your requests, you may consider sending a formal demand letter outlining your concerns, the health risks posed to your children, and your intentions to withhold rent or take legal action if the issue is not addressed promptly.
Consult an attorney: If all else fails, consult a local attorney specializing in tenant-landlord issues to understand your rights and options further.
Remember, it is crucial to stay calm and assertive while addressing the issue with your landlord. Keep all communications respectful and professional, focusing on the well-being of your family. Extreme temperatures can be dangerous for young children, so addressing the AC problem promptly is essential.