Why Renters Should Care About Repairs

You’re renting, so the repairs are the landlord’s problem, right? But here’s the issue with that mindset - you’re the one living there, and how can you be comfortable in a space that needs to be repaired? Say there’s a crack in the patio, a loose tile or a small leak. 

It might not seem like a big deal at first, but if you ignore it, you’re in for a huge headache later because these seemingly minor issues can become big problems later on. Repairs aren’t exciting, but you have to keep your living space in good shape, otherwise it’s neither comfortable nor safe. 

Also, if you spot issues early, you’ll help the landlord keep the property’s value intact. That might not be something that will benefit you directly, but hey - good karma can’t hurt. 

3 Benefits or Proactive Maintenance for Renters

Fixing things when they break is a must, but proactive maintenance is more about keeping the space comfortable and safe. If you’re a renter, you get a better living experience, and if you’re a landlord, it’s a smart way to protect the value of the property. 

1. Reducing Long-Term Costs for Landlords

Small repairs that are handled right away don’t become big, expensive problems down the road. 

Say a surface is uneven; fixing it on time will prevent issues with the foundation later. When you stay on top of minor repairs, you save on renovations, and that also means that you don’t disrupt your daily life. In the long run, everybody wins. 

2. Better Quality of Life

Proactive maintenance equals happy renters. If you know a repair will be handled quickly, you don't need to worry about living in a rundown, neglected space. This means less stress and a positive living experience. 

3. Long-Term Stability

Keeping the property up to par is usually something the landlords concern themselves with, but it also benefits you as a renter. If the property you live on is maintained, you’re less likely to have sudden, major issues that could lead to big renovations, which are long, disruptive, and might even force you to move. 

If everything’s in good shape, you feel safe, plus you know your home won’t become a nightmare overnight. 

4 Ways How Renters Can Get Involved in Maintenance

Getting involved in maintenance doesn’t mean you should pick up a wrench or start fixing things yourself. In fact, that might land you in a world of problems, especially if you’re not handy. 

But even as a renter, there are ways you can help keep your living space in good shape.

1. Report the Problem Immediately

Check your apartment and common areas on a regular basis and see if there are any signs of wear and tear. This is a great first step because you can prevent problems from even happening. 

Look for things like cracks in walls or floors, water leaks, damaged fixtures, etc. If you notice something, like a crack in a concrete walkway, help your landlord fix it sooner by searching ‘concrete lifting near me’ to find a professional who can handle it. 

Remember: early caught issues (regardless of how small or insignificant) are much easier, swifter, and cheaper to deal with. If you let them develop into something more serious, the price can exponentially get higher really quickly,

2. Document/Communicate Repairs

Just to keep yourself safe, document/record everything. As you move in, before you sign the contract, ensure that everything is checked and that each and every nook, cranny, and dent is notified by the landlord. 

This will, in the long run, save you headaches, save your deposit, and even (potentially) save you some legal problems.

Do the same before a new problem occurs and before you report the problem to the landlord. Take a photo, or video, and add a date and a short description of the situation.

Make sure to clearly communicate all details so that it’s easier for your landlord to know exactly what the issue is about and to prevent repairs from being dragged on for a long time. 

3. Build a Positive Relationship with Your Landlord

Good communication makes all the difference. When you’re reporting an issue, be polite, respectful, and straightforward. Give them all the necessary information upfront and be considerate to build a good rapport with the landlord. 

It’s pretty simple - if the landlord likes you, they’ll handle the repair quicker than they would if you were rude and entitled. 

Would you go out of your way for a person you disliked? Hardly. 

4. Advocate for Timely Repairs

Sometimes, you’ll need to do more than just report an issue, and that’s okay. If the issue concerns your safety or comfort, it’s completely normal to explain your concerns to your landlord. 

Let them know the issue affects your daily life and point out why it needs to be addressed quickly. 

Conclusion

So even though you might think that just because you’re a renter, you have no further obligations towards the property, think of the fact that you’re (probably) paid a hefty deposit, which you’d probably want back. Make sure you’ve read your contract. 

And even if you do not care about any of it – you’re still the one living there. And it’s probably safe to say that you wouldn’t (probably) want to live in a mess. 

So, be active about the upkeep, not because of the landlord, but because of yourself. 

You won’t be the one to pay for the maintenance costs/repairs anyways. So why not ensure that the issues are being dealt with ASAP?

Long story short – the next time you notice something that should be fixed, or a ‘disaster waiting to happen’, it is up to you to make a difference.

A happy house makes for a happy and more enjoyable life.