When tenant does not respond

[Kathryn S.]

We sent a difficult tenant an update on ceiling leak repair. We are now ready to schedule a repaint job. Because he has been non-cooperative, we asked that he gave us a few days and time to schedule this job. He has not responded. He also withheld 50% of the rent citing ceiling leak as a reason. At this point, should we give him a 24-hour notice and go in and repaint the ceiling? 

Philly requires a period of 30-day "eviction diversion" program phase. We are still in that phase. 

Thank you very much!!

[Bruce Woodruff]

Generally a tenant cannot deny you entry to fix a problem. Just give 24 hr notice (if that what it is?) nad go do it. I would print out the law on this for your area and leave it with him in case he gets upset (sounds like he might?)