Twirls,

If the company's that you contacted are willing to put it in writing you're golden. You have rights, depending on the state, if your landlord tries to deduct the repair from your security, you can get triple back. You can get the window repaired and deduct the money from your rent. You may have to notify the landlord in advance (to give him the opportunity to repair) depending on the regulations. Contact your local housing office, they'll have pamphlets with your rights and responsibilities in it.

One rental place we had in Upper Michigan was built right on the alley, before zoning laws. The snow plow came and the pressure of the snow bent the aluminum storm door. I contacted my landlord immediately, she told me to call the city, which I did. The city said the property owner had to file a claim, which I relayed back to my landlord. Round and round we went.

She tried to take $150 for a storm door that was 10 years old and would be < $100 new! Sent a copy of the pamphlet with the rules highlighted and had my security within 24 hours.