What Are a Landlord’s Property Maintenance Responsibilities?
As the rental property owner, it's your responsibility to comply with the landlord-tenant laws' rules and regulations, especially when it comes to keeping the habitability condition of the rental unit. It’s critical to ensure that your property is habitable and meets the legal standards for a comfortable living space. Although the exact requirements may differ depending on which state you are in, the following are some general guidelines that you should comply with:Supply Proper Garbage Receptacles
The landlord should be responsible for providing adequate garbage disposal options to their residents. The size and quantity of trash bins should be appropriate based on the number of occupants and the frequency of trash collection.
Additionally, some cities may have certain requirements about putting enclosures around trash bins. It's recommended to check the local ordinances to ensure that you comply with all the rules and regulations regarding trash receptacles.
Supply Clean, Running Water
Water is a necessity that tenants have the right to access. As a landlord, you need to provide a sufficient supply of clean running water to your residents and ensure that your showers, toilets, and faucets are functioning well. It’s best to provide a water heater as well so tenants can access hot water when needed.Repair the Property as Needed
It’s the landlord’s responsibility to provide habitable dwelling space for renters. If there are issues that are due to normal wear and tear, the landlord is required to perform the necessary renovations within a reasonable timeframe. If the damage is due to the tenant’s neglect or abuse, the landlord reserves the right to charge the repair cost to the tenants.Follow the Building Codes
Ensuring the safety and well-being of tenants is a crucial responsibility for landlords. To do this, landlords must follow the building and safety codes as mandated by the law. The following are some of the mandatory requirements that landlords need to comply with:- The structural integrity of the property should be secure.
- The number of tenants residing in the property should meet the required legal standards.
- Placement of smoke and carbon monoxide detectors at appropriate locations.
- Plumbing and electrical systems should be in good working condition.
- Any mold or pest infestations should be addressed effectively to maintain a healthy living environment.
- Asbestos and lead paint should be disclosed to the renters accordingly.
Maintain the Common Areas
The common areas of the property are usually part of the landlord’s responsibility. Keeping these areas clean and safe should be a top priority for rental property owners. Make sure to install sufficient outdoor lighting in common areas to prevent any accidents during night time.What Are the Tenants’ Property Maintenance Responsibilities?
Tenants also have legal responsibilities to maintain the habitability of the property. Since they’re the ones living on the property, it’s their responsibility to ensure that it is clean and used properly. Here are a few ways tenants can help with property maintenance:Follow the Terms of the Lease
Lease violations are one of the most common disputes between landlords and tenants. They’re also one of the most common causes of eviction. Tenants are required to abide by the terms of the lease to maintain safety. For instance, tenants must not sneak in additional occupants if they already met the maximum capacity allowed in the unit.Report Any Maintenance or Repair Issues
Tenants should be the first to know if there’s something wrong with any aspect of the property since they’re the ones using it. Tenants are expected to report any issues to the landlord as soon as possible before they become more serious and costly to fix.Prevent Mold Growth
Keeping the property clean and dry should be a top priority for the occupants as this can help prevent mold growth. Mold can cause severe health problems and should be prevented early on.
Tenants should report any leaks or water damage to ensure that they are addressed immediately before the affected area becomes a breeding ground for mold to grow.
