National Real Estate Practice Exam

When a landlord is facing a claim of constructive eviction, a proactive and appropriate response is to resolve the unlivable conditions. Constructive eviction occurs when a tenant is forced to leave a rental property because it becomes uninhabitable due to the landlord's failure to maintain essential conditions, such as plumbing, heating, or safety features.

By addressing and remedying these issues, the landlord shows a commitment to providing a safe and habitable environment for the tenant. This action can not only help retain the tenant but may also prevent any legal repercussions that could arise from neglecting their responsibilities. It's essential for landlords to comply with local housing codes and uphold lease agreements to ensure the property remains livable, hence avoiding constructive eviction claims.

In contrast, ignoring tenant complaints could exacerbate the situation and lead to further legal issues. Similarly, beginning the eviction process without addressing the problems would likely be seen as retaliatory and improper. Increasing the rent in an attempt to force the tenant out is not a legal or ethical solution and could violate tenant protection laws. Thus, resolving the unlivable conditions is the most responsible and effective course of action for a landlord in this scenario.