As a landlord, you might find yourself wondering, “What exactly am I responsible for fixing?” Maybe your tenants think you're their personal handyman, while you’re left debating whether replacing a burnt-out light bulb is really part of the job description. Don’t worry, we’re here to shed some light (pun intended) on your obligations. Let’s break down the small stuff landlords often face and whether or not you’re on the hook to fix it.
1. Light Bulbs: To Change or Not to Change?
For the most part, replacing light bulbs falls under the tenant's responsibility—unless the fixture is hard to access or specialized. For example, if you have a 20-foot chandelier in the foyer of a rental home, you might want to step in (or call a professional). Regular bulbs? That’s usually on your tenant.
Pro Tip: Include a clause in your lease specifying who’s responsible for light bulb replacement to avoid confusion.
2. Air Filters: A Breath of Fresh Air
Keeping HVAC systems running smoothly often requires changing the air filters regularly. Most leases place this responsibility on tenants, especially if it’s easy for them to do. However, if your rental includes high-maintenance systems or difficult-to-access filters, you might want to handle it yourself to protect your investment.
Why You Should Care: Clogged filters can lead to HVAC breakdowns, and those repairs are 100% your responsibility. Providing filters or scheduling a filter replacement service can save you from costly repairs down the road.
3. Smoke Detectors and Carbon Monoxide Alarms
This one’s on you, landlord. It’s your responsibility to install and maintain these life-saving devices. While tenants should report low-battery warnings, you’re ultimately accountable for ensuring they work. Check them during routine maintenance visits.
Safety Tip: Set a reminder to test alarms every six months and document your checks for liability purposes.
4. Plumbing: Clogged Toilets and Leaky Faucets
If a tenant clogs the toilet with something they shouldn’t have flushed (looking at you, flushable wipes), the repair is typically their responsibility. However, recurring plumbing issues, leaking pipes, or old fixtures are your duty to fix.
Maintenance Tip: Invest in quality plumbing fixtures and educate tenants on proper use to prevent mishaps.
5. Appliances: Whose Job Is It Anyway?
If your rental includes appliances like refrigerators, stoves, or washers, their maintenance and repairs are usually your responsibility. That said, tenants should handle day-to-day upkeep, like cleaning filters or defrosting the freezer.
Pro Tip: Provide an appliance manual at move-in to set expectations for tenant care.
6. Pests: Who Calls the Exterminator?
In most states, landlords are responsible for pest control unless the issue arises from the tenant’s behavior (e.g., leaving food out). Proactively schedule pest control services to keep critters at bay and your tenants happy.
7. Landscaping and Outdoor Maintenance
Mowing the lawn, trimming hedges, and clearing leaves are tasks that can be assigned to tenants through the lease agreement. However, if major tree trimming or snow removal is required, that’s usually your responsibility.
Quick Tip: Offering lawn care as part of the rent can be a win-win, keeping the property tidy while ensuring consistent upkeep.
Setting the Record Straight with Your Tenants
The best way to avoid awkward requests like “Can you come replace this light bulb?” is to clearly outline maintenance responsibilities in your lease. A maintenance guide or move-in checklist can also help clarify what tenants are expected to handle versus what requires your attention.
When in Doubt, connect with Houswit!
Property maintenance can be overwhelming—why not let the experts at Houswit handle it for you? From routine upkeep like air filter replacements to emergency repairs, we’re here to lighten your load and keep your tenants happy.
By understanding your responsibilities and setting clear boundaries, you can focus on managing your investment while ensuring your tenants feel supported. Now, go grab a ladder—or better yet, tell your tenants where they can find one!
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