This is more related to the rent skimming discussions. It’s a problem that needs a good legal recommended course of action because I suspect many renters are going to find themselves in a situation where their landlord goes to default and/or goes to foreclosure.
If the landlord is in default, but not rent skimming, your withholding rent could result in their being forced into foreclosure. At the same time, I understand the need to have you security deposit and any outstanding funds in escrow so that you do not lose them if the landlord screws it up.
In the meantime, find a local resource like Tenants Legal Center to get the scoop. I have no experience with them but it seems like a place to start.
Maybe we can use the power of Piggington to get the Attorney to comment on general guidelines for such a situation.