One of the most common questions renters have is: Who is responsible for maintenance and repairs in a rental property? Understanding what falls under tenant responsibilities versus what is handled by the property management company can help you avoid confusion, unexpected expenses, and potential lease violations.
In this guide, we’ll break down who is responsible for what so you can keep your rental home in great condition while ensuring your landlord or property manager addresses the bigger issues.
Tenant Responsibilities: What You Need to Maintain
As a tenant, you are responsible for keeping your rental unit clean, safe, and in good condition throughout your lease. Here are some of the key maintenance tasks that typically fall on you:
1. Routine Cleaning and Upkeep
- Sweeping, mopping, and vacuuming floors
- Cleaning bathrooms and kitchens regularly
- Taking out the trash to prevent pests
- Maintaining private outdoor spaces, if applicable
2. Minor Repairs and Replacements
- Replacing light bulbs and batteries in smoke detectors
- Unclogging sinks, toilets, and drains for minor blockages
- Keeping appliances clean and in working order
3. Preventing Damage and Reporting Issues Promptly
- Avoiding unnecessary wear and tear on walls, doors, and fixtures
- Preventing and addressing minor pest issues by keeping food sealed and reporting problems early
- Reporting leaks, water damage, or mold before they worsen
4. Proper Use of Appliances and Utilities
- Using appliances correctly to avoid breakdowns
- Avoiding overloading electrical outlets
- Not attempting DIY repairs that require a professional
If something in your rental needs fixing, always document and report it to your property manager as soon as possible to prevent further damage.
Property Management Responsibilities: What We *Typically* Handle
A property management company is responsible for ensuring the structural integrity, safety, and essential systems of the rental property. Here’s what you can expect us to take care of:
1. Major Repairs and Structural Issues
- Roof leaks, foundation cracks, and exterior damage
- Broken windows, doors, or locks, unless caused by tenant negligence
- Electrical system failures or major wiring issues
2. Plumbing and HVAC System Repairs
- Major plumbing issues such as burst pipes or sewage backups
- Heating and cooling system malfunctions
- Water heater breakdowns
3. Appliance Repairs, If Provided in the Lease
- Fixing or replacing malfunctioning refrigerators, ovens, or dishwashers
- Addressing washer or dryer issues if included in the rental
4. Pest Control in Some Cases
- Handling infestations such as termites or rodents that are not due to tenant negligence
5. Compliance with Health and Safety Codes
- Ensuring smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms are working
- Keeping the building up to local safety and habitability codes
What to Do If You Have a Maintenance Request
If something in your rental needs fixing, follow these steps:
- Submit a Maintenance Request: Use the designated method, such as email, tenant portal, or phone, to report the issue.
- Provide Photos if Applicable: This helps speed up the repair process.
- Allow Reasonable Time for Repairs: Emergency repairs are handled as soon as possible, while non-urgent issues may take longer.
- Follow Up if Needed: If a repair takes longer than expected, check with your property manager for updates.
Understanding who is responsible for what in your rental can save you time, frustration, and potential costs. By handling minor maintenance tasks and reporting major issues quickly, you can ensure your rental remains a safe and comfortable place to live.
Need help with a maintenance issue? Our property management team is here to assist you. Contact us today for your real estate needs
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