Landlord issues

It depends on what the problem is with the carpet. If it is a substantial problem interfering with your ability to live on the premises, then the "repair and deduct" remedy may be available to you. At the same time, one would wonder why this hasn't manifested itself within the last twelve years.

I agree with my colleague. The need to keep the apartment clean and free from dust, pollen and other like irritants is not the duty of the landlord, unless the landlord is causing the problem. On the other hand, if the carpet is worn out and torn as a result of the age of the carpet and is unsafe, then yes, the landlord is responsible. The life of a carpet depends on the quality of the carpet and the amount of wear and tear. Seems like a carpet that is over 12 years old is suspect. If the carpet is not unsafe you cannot simply replace it as it is not your carpet. As you can see, there are a lot of questions to be asked. If you think that it is an unsafe condition, I suggest you contact a lawyer that represents tenants and have a consultation. Any landlord that has a long time tenant would be foolish not to work with his/her tenant. Good luck.