According to Oklahoma law, who is responsible for maintaining the habitability of a rented dwelling unit?

Under Oklahoma law, the responsibility for maintaining the habitability of a rented dwelling unit falls primarily on the landlord. This obligation is part of the implied warranty of habitability, which requires landlords to ensure that the rental property is safe, sanitary, and suitable for living. This includes maintaining essential services such as heating, plumbing, and electrical systems and making necessary repairs to prevent hazardous conditions.

The landlord's role in maintaining habitability encompasses both the structural aspects of the property and compliance with local building codes and health regulations. This responsibility cannot be evaded, even if a lease agreement places certain duties on the tenant. Tenants are generally expected to keep the unit clean and report issues as they arise, but the ultimate responsibility for ensuring that the property remains habitable lies with the landlord.