Responsibility of Maintenance Repairs: What Landlords Should and Shouldn’t Cover

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A well-maintained rental property is the result of a cooperative effort between landlords and tenants. While landlords are responsible for ensuring the property remains habitable and in good condition, tenants also play a key role in routine upkeep and timely reporting of issues. 

Understanding these roles and setting expectations from the start of the relationship helps to create a positive rental experience, prevent misunderstandings and ensure that repairs are handled efficiently. By clarifying responsibilities, both parties can work together to maintain a safe and comfortable living environment.

Here are some general guidelines about what maintenance repairs landlords are responsible for and which ones should be taken care of by the tenant.

Landlord responsibilities 

Landlords are responsible for ensuring their rental properties remain habitable, safe and compliant with local housing codes. This includes repairing foundational issues, roof leaks, damaged walls, or flooring problems that compromise the integrity of the building. Structural issues, water damage and other hazards must be addressed promptly to ensure tenant safety and prevent further deterioration.

Plumbing and electrical systems must be kept in working order, meaning landlords are tasked with repairing leaks, fixing faulty electrical wiring, restoring power during outages, and replacing broken fixtures such as toilets, sinks, and circuit breakers. Ensuring these essential systems function properly is crucial for maintaining a livable rental unit.

Heating, cooling and ventilation systems also fall under a landlord’s responsibility. If an HVAC system breaks down due to regular wear and tear, the landlord must repair or replace it to ensure tenants have access to proper heating and cooling. Although routine maintenance, such as changing air filters, is typically the tenant’s duty, landlords must handle major system failures.

Pest and mold remediation is another area where responsibility depends on the cause of the issue. If infestations or mold growth result from property conditions such as poor insulation, plumbing leaks, or structural damage, the landlord is responsible for remediation. However, if the issue arises due to tenant neglect, such as failing to clean regularly or leaving food exposed, tenants may be held accountable.

For multi-unit properties, landlords are responsible for maintaining shared spaces such as hallways, staircases, lobbies, parking areas and landscaping. These areas must be kept safe and in good condition to prevent hazards like tripping risks or inadequate lighting. Proper maintenance of these spaces ensures a secure and welcoming environment for all residents.

Landlords must also comply with local health and safety codes, which include fire safety regulations, secure locks and proper sanitation. Adhering to these codes is essential for legal compliance and tenant well-being. Failure to meet these standards can lead to legal consequences and tenant claims. 

Tenant responsibilities

Tenants are responsible for any damage they or their guests cause, including holes in walls, broken windows and stained carpets. Additionally, they must restore any unauthorized modifications to the rental property, such as unapproved paint jobs or fixture changes. Damage caused by pets also falls under tenant responsibility. Proper supervision of pets and guests can prevent costly repairs.

Routine maintenance tasks also fall under tenant responsibility. These include replacing light bulbs, unclogging minor drain blockages, replacing air filters in HVAC systems and maintaining any assigned outdoor spaces. If a tenant fails to perform these routine tasks, they may be held responsible for any resulting damage.

Another crucial tenant responsibility is timely reporting of maintenance issues. Failure to report minor problems like leaks, mold growth, or pest infestations in a timely manner can lead to more severe damage, increasing repair costs. Some state laws even hold tenants partially responsible for repairs if they neglect to report issues promptly. Keeping a record of all maintenance requests can help tenants prove they fulfilled their duty.

Additionally, tenants must follow proper use guidelines for appliances and fixtures. Misuse of household systems, such as overloading electrical outlets, improper disposal of waste leading to plumbing clogs, or neglecting HVAC maintenance, can result in damage that tenants must pay to repair.

Fostering positive experiences and relationships

A successful rental experience depends on mutual respect and good communication between landlords and tenants. By clearly outlining repair responsibilities in the lease agreement and maintaining open lines of communication, both parties can prevent disputes and forge a positive relationship that leads to better outcomes and experiences. 

Landlords who respond promptly to necessary repairs and maintain the property in good condition demonstrate reliability and care for their tenants. Likewise, tenants who take responsibility for minor maintenance and report issues in a timely manner help keep the property in optimal condition.

Regular property inspections, transparent policies and a willingness to address concerns create a foundation of trust. Landlords should provide tenants with clear guidelines on reporting maintenance issues and encourage proactive communication. In turn, tenants should respect the property and fulfill their responsibilities to ensure a smooth rental experience.

By working together, landlords and tenants can create a positive, well-maintained living environment that benefits both parties. Understanding and respecting each other’s roles fosters long-term, mutually beneficial relationships and ensures that the rental property remains a safe and comfortable place to live.

Ryan Barone is the co-founder and CEO of RentRedi, an award-winning rental management software that transforms the way landlords and tenants manage their renting experience.