Section 17 in The Kerala Buildings (Lease and Rent control) Act, 1965
17. Conversion of buildings and failure by landlord to make necessary repairs.
(1)No residential building shall be converted into a non-residential building or vice versa and no such building shall be divided into separate portions for letting on rent or for other purposes except with the permission in writing of the Accommodation Controller.Provided that where such conversion involves structural alteration of the building, the consent of the landlord shall also be necessary.(2)Notwithstanding any law, custom, usage or contract to the contrary, the landlord shall be bound to attend to the periodical maintenance and necessary repairs of the building. If a landlord fails to attend to such maintenance or repairs to the buildings and amenities thereto within reasonable time after notice is given by the tenant, it shall be competent for the Accommodation Controller to direct an application by the tenant that such maintenance and repairs may be attended to by the tenant and that the charges and cost thereof may be deducted with interest at six per cent per annum from the rent which is payable by him.
