Section 17(2) in The Kerala Buildings (Lease and Rent control) Act, 1965
(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.
