There's nothing you can do yourself. You have to understand this is (rental) property. It is the sole responsibility of the owner to fix this type of problem. Trying to do it yourself would most likely (violate) your lease agreement, as almost ALL leases state that "the rentee is not to make any changes to fixtures, electrical, ect without the sole permission of the owner".

You really need to call this guy (even if he's lazy), this is a possible fire hazzard, and risk to you and your family. If he continues to be a jerk, threaten to call the fire marshall, and report him. His building (must) by law be up to code.

Squeak