Landlord won't fix power? Find Spanish electrician in Austin

Quick facts	Answer
Cost range	Simple outlet or switch repair: $150–$300 per visit
Time	Simple repairs can take under 1 hour; larger jobs take hours to days
Who's qualified	Texas requires a valid TDLR electrician license; ask for proof of insurance

What should I do today if I have no power in one room?

Keep your baby away from exposed wiring and do not try to repair the wiring yourself. Take photos of the dead outlets or switches and any scorch marks. Send your landlord written notice of the problem and keep a copy.

Is the landlord legally required to fix electrical problems in Texas?

Texas law says a landlord must repair problems that materially affect a tenant's physical health or safety, including electrical wiring problems. Texas State Law Library guidance says to wait a reasonable time, usually 7 days, then send a second written notice if the problem remains.

What should I check when hiring an electrician?

Texas requires electricians to hold a valid license issued by the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR). Texas requires minimum insurance of $300,000 per occurrence and $600,000 aggregate, so ask the pro for proof of licence and insurance. For permit-required work in Austin, the contractor must be registered with the Austin Development Services Department.

Will the work need a permit?

Austin typically requires permits for panel upgrades, new circuits, service changes and rewiring. Like-for-like replacement of a switch, outlet or fixture at the same location is generally permit-free. Permit fees for most residential electrical projects are approximately $40 to $200.

What to do next

Send your landlord a written repair request today and keep a dated copy.
Verify the electrician's TDLR license number on the state's licensing lookup before booking.
Ask the pro for proof of insurance meeting Texas minimums of $300,000 per occurrence and $600,000 aggregate.
Request an itemized quote that states whether a City of Austin permit is needed and its $40–$200 fee.
Call (737) 367-2100 or email [email protected] for a free quote from a licensed, insured electrician.

Austin Volts is a free referral service: an independent contractor does the work and may pay us a referral fee. You never pay us anything.

Quick answers

Is the landlord legally required to fix electrical issues in Texas?

Yes, if the problem materially affects your physical health or safety, including electrical wiring problems. Send written notice first and wait a reasonable time, usually about 7 days, before a second notice.

How do I find an electrician who speaks Spanish near me?

Call Austin Volts free at (737) 367-2100 and ask for a Spanish-speaking pro in Austin. We refer you to a local, licensed, insured electrician; we do not do the work ourselves.

What are my rights as a tenant without electricity in Austin?

If the landlord still does not repair the problem after proper notice, Texas law may allow you to end the lease, have the repair made and deduct the cost, or file suit to force repairs. A tenant who pays the utility directly cannot have service cut off over unpaid rent.

Can I withhold rent if the landlord doesn't fix the power?

Do not withhold rent without first checking Texas rules, because the options listed for unrepaired problems are ending the lease, repair-and-deduct, or suing. Talk to a tenant rights resource before stopping payment.