Dealing with a landlord who is unresponsive to necessary repairs can be one of the most frustrating aspects of renting. For tenants in West Virginia, understanding your rights and the legal pathways available is crucial, especially when considering withholding rent. While it might seem like a logical step to prompt action, West Virginia law has specific nuances that could put your tenancy at risk if not followed carefully. The Implied Warranty of Habitability in West Virginia At the core of a tenant's right to a safe and livable home is the "implied warranty of habitability." This isn't usually something explicitly written in your lease; rather, it's a legal principle that the law assumes is part of every residential lease agreement. In West Virginia, this warranty dictates that a landlord must provide and maintain a property that is fit for human habitation throughout the tenancy. What does "fit for human habitation" mean? It means ...