Legal remedies against a lessor's failure to make necessary repairs

Dear PAO:

I have been leasing a bungalow house for nine months. Unfortunately, the kitchen sink is not draining properly, causing puddles of water to form inside the house. I informed my landlord about this, but he has not taken action to resolve it and has ignored my calls and text messages. I'm concerned about my family's health and safety. I am contemplating withholding the monthly rent until my landlord solves the problem. Is this action legal?